Positive Asian Stereotypes and Supportive Communication for Asian College Students in the US

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session II
  In Paper Session: Intercultural Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

While self-endorsing positive stereotypes such as high achievement and perseverance could be beneficial to Asian college students, pressures to fit all expectations of the Asian model minority myth could be psychologically damaging. The way we interact with our family and friends is influential in how we perceive ourselves and our ability to cope with life’s stresses. The current study examined the way distinct types of endorsement of positive Asian stereotypes are related to the quality of family interaction, social support and coping among 128 Asian college students. Results indicated that family satisfaction and parental perfectionism were positively related to the endorsement of Asian stereotypes at the group level, while family satisfaction, social support and highly person-centered messages were positively related to self-endorsed positive Asian stereotypes. Family satisfaction, social support, and person-centered messages predicted Asian students’ ability to cope with their academic problems and stresses.

Authors

• Susan Lee Kline, Ohio State U

• Chau-sa Dang, Ohio State U