Examining Asian Americans’ Critical Reflection on Race and Racism

Project Title

Examining Asian Americans’ Critical Reflection as a Moderator between Internalizing the Model Minority Myth and Resistance to Racism

Faculty Mentor(s)

Project Description

With increased anti-Asian violence, it is important to understand how Asian Americans take action against racial discrimination. The model minority myth (MMM) is a racial stereotype that views Asian Americans as an apolitical exemplary minority group that is economically and academically successful. At the same time, it perpetuates beliefs that Asian Americans are unaffected by systemic inequality and only needs a strong work ethic to succeed. Asian Americans who internalize the MMM adopt attitudes associated with white supremacy and are less aware of structural racism. My research examines how a deeper understanding of systems of oppression (critical reflection) can affect the association between internalizing the MMM and resistance to racism. This research can inform us how Asian Americans challenge the existence and perpetuation of racism, which is integral to dismantling oppressive power structures and can inform one how to contribute to advocacy and activism.

Why is your research important?

This research is important because it illustrates how Asian Americans contend with racial discrimination, engage with sociopolitical movements, and support interracial solidarity. This research can help inform community interventions by examining how Asian Americans understand racial discrimination. This is a key step in developing critical consciousness that can help dismantle oppression systems.

In what ways have you showcased your research thus far?

I did a poster presentation on this research at the APA Division 45 Research Conference in San Diego, CA, this summer. I connected with professors, graduate students, and psychologists within the field. It helped me see the value of my work within the psychology of race, ethnicity, and culture.

How did you get involved in research? What drove you to seek out research experiences in college?

After declaring my psychology major, I knew I wanted to become a therapist. However, I realized that there was more to psychology than practice. After looking at the faculty website, I cold emailed Professor Wu, asking to join her lab because of her research interests. Since then, I have become more interested in a research career and have been able to develop my skills and interests.

What is your favorite aspect of the research process?

I like having long discussions with multiple people about this project. As an Asian American who is politically active, I feel strongly about the racial discrimination we have faced recently. I hope to learn more from my experiences and encourage other Asian Americans to participate in activism.

How has working with your mentor impacted the development of your research project? How has it impacted you as a researcher?

My mentor has been valuable to me during this research process! She has helped me think critically about my work, guided me through challenging parts, and encouraged me to achieve my highest potential! Having her for advice and support as I work on this research has been wonderful.

How has the research you’ve conducted contributed to your professional or academic development?

My goal is to obtain a PhD in clinical or counseling psychology. This project has been an excellent way to experience research full-time and has allowed me to learn and grow as a researcher towards gaining the skills that prepare me well for graduate school. This project has also combined my personal and academic interests and helped me determine the kinds of research I want to get more involved in.