8 The Model Minority Myth
Jessica Dunker
The Model Minority myth
This term is used to describe how minority, or marginalized, groups are perceived to achieve a higher socioeconomic status in comparison to other marginalized groups, and are generally perceived within proximity to the dominant, or majority, group, because of one group’s perceived relation to the majority group’s pervasive influence in a society; typically discussed in terms of race, ethnicity, religion, values, culture, and customs, and how power dynamics affect the alignment of these factors among communities.
Watch this video to learn more.
The dangers of the model minority myth include divisiveness among marginalized groups and stereotypes that perpetuate harm onto individuals of the perceived model minority.
Though a simple analogy, consider the concept of a “teacher’s pet” in the classroom. Students who are typically labeled “teacher’s pet” often receive bullying and harassment by their peers, because other students perceive the “teacher’s pet” to have a special relationship with the authority figure that is not seemingly attainable by the other students in the class. This feeling of special privilege leads to students feeling isolated, abandoned, betrayed, jealous, and often times angry. However, in connotation to adults’ perspective of what it means to be a “teacher’s pet,” positive qualities are attributed to the student: high intellect, outspoken, mature, curious, disciplined, potential for leadership.
Model minorities are often perceived as attaining “all the right perks,” but we must explore what defines the model minority and how it affects the individual.
Directions: Read both of the following articles.
Soonling Blackburn, Sarah. “What is the Model Minority Myth?” learningforjustice.org, 21 March 2019.
Chow, Kat. “‘Model Minority’ Myth Again Used as a Racial Wedge Between Asians and Blacks.” npr.org, 19 April 2017.
Discuss & Reflect:
- What are some qualities we associate with the model minority?
- What are the main ideas of each article?
- How are the perspectives of each article different, and the same?
- Using textual evidence, highlight a quote that stood out to you from one of the articles: What does it mean? Why is this idea important to consider?