The Model Minority Myth: Navigating the Academic Terrain as Asian American Women in Criminology

• In Event: An Exploration of Asian-American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) Victimization Research in Criminology and Criminal Justice Sciences

Abstract

The model minority myth has typically been used to describe Asian American people as being academically and professionally successful (Yi & Museus, 2015), hard-working and determined (Chang, 2019), and, for women, passive and obedient (DeLoso, 2020). The authors have used a duoethnographic approach to examine the ways that the model minority myth has influenced our experiences in academia, especially in terms of teaching, research, and service. This presentation aims to facilitate discussion about the Asian American academic experience, particularly in the context of COVID-19 and anti-Asian sentiments. It will also provide an overview of responses to previously published articles and examine effective ways to support Asian scholars. Such discussions can highlight the ways that the model minority myth fits in the broader context of racial and ethnic equity on college campuses and, more broadly, in criminology, academia, and the United States.

Authors

• Rita Shah, Eastern Michigan University

• Sarah E. Daly, Saint Vincent College