Asian Pacific Islander Student Leaders: The Model Minority Myth and Mental Health Challenges

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 7:45 am - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Roundtable Session 3: Student Learning and Development in College and Beyond

Abstract

As U.S. society remains engulfed in political polarization, and government leaders move to eliminate public education, understanding perspectives and experiences of youth leadership is increasingly important. This qualitative study sought to learn how Asian & Pacific Islander university students who are campus leaders perceive their roles at a large, comprehensive 4-year institution in Southern California, and the influences of societal, familial and campus-based pressures on mental health and wellness. Analyzing interview data through a critical race theory perspective, Asian stereotypes including the Model Minority Myth appear to have an implicit but powerful influence on student experiences. Further, unexplored motivations for taking on leadership roles and leadership practices emerged, portending promise for the potential of youth leadership in troubled times.

Authors

• Eugene Fujimoto, California State University - Fullerton

• Linh Huynh, California State University - Fullerton

• Chrisna Ung, California State University - Fullerton