Model Minority Stereotypes

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There is a problem present in society and it is deeply affecting a certain community. The model minority stereotype has made a tremendous impact on the mental well-being of Asian American students. In 2019, Asian American male high schoolers were 30 percent more likely to consider committing suicide as compared to white male students (“Mental and Behavioral”). Those outside the Asian community may see this stereotype as praise or a compliment, given that most Asian Americans are well off financially, have good-paying jobs, and are academically talented. This stereotype is what society believes is the typical Asian. To society, the typical Asian does not need mental health help because they have no imperfections. To society, the typical Asian …show more content…
Thus, less attention is given to the needs of Asian Americans in the form of professionals with adequate cultural sensitivity and language capacities” (Eng and TenElshof). This goes back to society's belief that Asian Americans do not have complications because of their superb academic performances. Although Asians may seem perfect on paper, it does not mean that they do not suffer from mental health issues as well. The mental health issues of Asian American students needs to be recognized, but it is not because of the model minority stereotype. The model minority myth comes with high academic expectations that can cause an unbearable amount of pressure on Asian students. In “The Model Minority is Losing Patience” the author acknowledges the unrealistic standards for Asian students. It is elucidated where the stereotype derives from and the pressure put on Asian students because of it. This harmful stereotype made “The notion that [an] A- is an "Asian F"” which creates increased pressure on Asian students (“The Model Minority”). Because of the model minority stereotype, Asians believe that an A- is failing, when in reality, it is an exceptional