August 14, 2024

"They Called us Exceptional:" The downfall of the model-minority narrative

52 minutes

The model-minority myth is harmful to our mental health, particularly within immigrant communities. The myth promotes an idealized image of Asian Americans as universally successful, hardworking, and problem-free, which sets unrealistic standards and pressures individuals to conform to a narrow definition of success. I welcome Prachi Gupta to talk about the model-minority narrative and the impact it has on all of us and on the changes needed for future generations.

We discuss:

How her personal family dynamics led her to investigate the impact of the model-minority myth

The mental health struggles that come with pressure from parents

Why we need to provide acceptance and love rather than pressure and perfectionism

To connect with Prachi Gupta follow her on Instagram @prachigu. For more resources visit the Prachi.co or purchase her debut memoir “They Called Us Exceptional” on Bookshop.org. Hardcover copies are available now or paperback is available for pre-order and out in stores Aug 20.

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By Dr. Mona Amin

4.9

14271,427 ratings