From Monolith to Mosaic: Understanding Inter-Ethnic Perceptions Among Asian Americans

• In Event: 50260 - Section on Asia and Asian America Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 10: Rethinking “Asian American”: Identity, Perception, and Intra-Group Difference

Abstract

This research explores inter-ethnic perceptions within Asian American communities, employing the stereotype content model (SCM) to analyze perceptions of warmth and competence among different Asian ethnic groups. SCM posits that these perceptions are influenced by perceived status and competition, which can predict competence and warmth, respectively. Traditional views often aggregate Asian Americans as a monolith, disregarding the substantial diversity within this group. This study, therefore, seeks to disaggregate these perceptions by examining specific ethnic distinctions among ten Asian ethnic groups within the broader Asian American category.
Utilizing data from the National Asian American Survey (NAAS), this study employs K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) for imputation of missing data and cluster analysis to identify and analyze patterns of warmth and competence attributed to different ethnic groups. The findings aim to enhance understanding of how diverse Asian American groups perceive each other and to inform policies that address and foster inter-ethnic understanding and cooperation. Preliminary results suggest that significant heterogeneity exists 1) among general perceptions of Asian ethnic groups, and 2) among how different ethnic groups rated one another.
By highlighting both the variations in perceptions and the factors influencing these views, the study contributes to a nuanced understanding of intergroup relations and social dynamics within the Asian American community, potentially influencing future research and policymaking aimed at promoting inclusivity and equity.

Author

• Anqi Hu, Emory University