There are several levels of multiculturalism and its influence on the psychological functioning and development of students in the classroom. These layers are made up of constructs, helping to define contributing factors, highlight perspectives, and better illustrate a continuum of acceptance. Contributing factors to our diverse population include Americanization, assimilation, nativism, and xenophobia. In Human Differences, Kent Koppleman states that Americanization “…encourages immigrants to abandon their heritage and conform to American ways” (Koppelman, 2011). Assimilation, or adopting the characteristics of others (Koppelman, 2011), can be unfavorable if multicultural perspectives are not introduced into the school curriculum to help inform. Assimilation and Americanization can be the result of extreme anti-immigration ideas, such as nativism and xenophobia. Nativism occurs when people in a country feel threatened by immigrants, causing xenophobia or prejudice against immigrants (Koppelman, 2011). One practice to combat such views is to create an open climate where “authentic” behaviors and perspectives are allowed (Luneburg). &...