Conference

Asian/Pacific Islanders: The Effect of the “Dream”

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Abstract

The “model minority”: bright, shining example of hard work and patience? An example for other racially marginalized groups to follow? The reality is much more complex. What does being the “model minority” mean to those who identity as Asian American in the U.S.? How do Asian-American/ Pacific Islanders cope with this concept? This presentation aims to create awareness and shed light on how the concept of ‘model minority’ plays a role in the mental health and suicide rates of Asian-American/ Pacific Islanders in the United States. Asian American women ages 15 to 24 have the highest suicide rate amongst all ethnic groups, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. We will examine the extent to which the concept of model minority influences mental health among all Asian Americans.