THE "MODEL MINORITY" MYTH AND ITS IMPACT ON ANXIETY AND STRESS ON ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENTS

While Asian American students are generally the largest group of minority students on college campuses, they are often neglected in higher education research due to their status as invisible minorities. The need to study this group is even more critical as the percentage of Asian Americans studying in the STEM fields continues to grow. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences and perceptions of Asian American students based on the "model minority" myth. The study looks at various influencing components such as the home environment, stigmas, and the importance of saving face for these students.

By using a qualitative approach, the study was able to examine the intersection of family, cultural influences, and the impact of the "model minority" myth for six students. Four prevailing themes emerged from the findings in this study: the importance of family, saving face, the "model minority" myth, and the stigma associated with seeking help. The study suggests that by focusing on these four themes, institutions can better serve their Asian American student population in lowering their anxiety and stress.