The Model Minority Myth

Abstract

The model minority myth (MMM) is a cluster of oppressive ideologies and stereotypes that frame certain racially minoritized groups in the United States, especially Asian Americans, as more successful and hardworking than other minoritized groups. This chapter examines the dimensions and consequences of the MMM, critiques its validity, and elucidates its implications in pediatric health care. We primarily focus on Asian Americans while acknowledging that the model minority myth, as a term, has also been applied to other minoritized groups. Keywords: model minority, Asian Americans, Black immigrants