IAT Test and What I Hear When You Say

“Model Minority” video

I choose to watch the video “What I Hear: The Model Minority” for various reasons, including wanting to learn more about the experiences of Asian Americans, understanding the stereotypes surrounding the “model minority” misconception and gaining insights into the impact of such stereotypes on Asian Americans’ lives. I expect to hear personal stories and perspectives from Asian Americans regarding their experiences with the model minority stereotype. I also expect the video to provide a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the misconception and its impact on Asian Americans, including how it encourages racism. Additionally, I expect that the video will eliminate the misconception that Asian Americans are all the same and highlight the variety of experiences that make up the community.

I have learned several lessons; firstly, that the model minority stereotype is a misconception that supports racism and underestimates the difficulties that Asian Americans confront. The stereotype is damaging because it ignores the variety of experiences within the Asian American community, even though it is often perceived as a compliment. The reality that there is a wide range of socioeconomic statuses within the Asian American community is ignored, which results in the development of unreasonable expectations such as the idea that all Asian Americans are successful and have well-paying employment. It also leaves out people who don’t fit the stereotype, such as low-income Asian Americans and Southeast Asians, who face particular challenges that are typically ignored. The concept of democracy, which supports tradition and hides discrimination, is another way that the stereotype helps the interests of the dominant group. Firstly, it’s important to eliminate stereotypes by accepting their negative effects and informing others of their significance. This can be accomplished by highlighting the variety within the Asian American community and emphasizing the opinions and experiences of Asian Americans who do not fit to the stereotype. Second, it’s essential to confront the racism that still exists and support the dominant group’s stereotype. This can be done by supporting groups that work for racial justice.  Finally, I see the world differently because I understand how damaging the model minority stereotype is, as well as how crucial it is to give the Asian American community many views and experiences more voice.

“SKIN” IAT

I decided to take the Skin IAT Test to evaluate my hidden biases related to skin color, despite my belief that I am unbiased towards any group in regards to their skin. I recognize that various factors can influence people’s biases subconsciously. I also believe that I will do well on the test; however, I know that the results will reveal important information about my hidden feelings toward skin color, even if I don’t realize it. Lastly, Identifying my biases will allow me to reduce their impact and develop a more comprehensive viewpoint toward people of all skin tones.

Based on my Skin IAT test results, results showed a slight automatic preference for Light-Skinned Black People over Dark-Skinned Black People, indicating that I may have unconscious biases. These biases could have been influenced by societal norms, stereotypes, and beauty standards. In my opinion, the results of the outcome are based on how quickly I associated positive and negative words with different skin tones. Additionally, I was surprised by the results because I believed that I didn’t hold any biases toward skin tones; however, the test showed me otherwise. I understand that such biases can be harmful and lead to discrimination in areas such as education, work, and other important aspects of life. Lastly, the Skin IAT helped me to identify my hidden biases and become more conscious of them, allowing me to work towards minimizing their impact in the future. 

New Information on the reflection regarding the video

According to the article, the stereotype began in the 1960s as a way of putting Asian Americans against other minority groups and justified discrimination against them. It also points out that the model minority stereotype is not only harmful to Asian Americans but also to other minority groups who are used as a comparison to continue the stereotype. The article also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the harmful impact of the model minority stereotype on all minority groups. The article also emphasizes how Asian Americans who are struggling, particularly those who come from low-income families or who experience other forms of discrimination like racism or xenophobia, may not receive the help they need as a result of the model minority stereotype. These people may not receive the same resources or attention as other underprivileged groups as a result of the stereotype, which might further isolate them. The role of the media in maintaining the model minority stereotype is another crucial issue that the article brings up. Lastly, it points out that the popular perception of Asian Americans frequently supports the stereotype by presenting successful, intelligent, and hardworking individuals while ignoring the variety of experiences and difficulties that Asian Americans confront.

Source

Lee, C. (2021, March 26). The Model Minority Myth is a Harmful Stereotype Against Asian Americans. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/model-minority-myth-harmful-stereotype-against-asian-americans-n1262021

https://www.pbs.org/video/what-i-hear-model-minority/