Asian American Identity Development Models

Question 1

Sue’s Asian American identity model (3)

Answer 1

1. traditionalist
2. marginal person
3. Asian American

Question 2

Kim’s Asian American identity model (5)

Answer 2

1. ethnic awareness
2. White identification
3. awakening to social political consciousness
4. redirection to Asian American consciousness
5. incorporation.

Question 3

Kim - stage begins around the age of three to four, when the child’s family members serve as the significant ethnic group model. Positive or neutral attitudes toward one’s own ethnic origin are formed, depending on the amount of ethnic exposure conveyed by the caretakers.

Answer 3

1. ethnic awareness - Kim

Question 4

Kim - this stage begins when children enter school, where peers and the surroundings become powerful forces in conveying racial prejudice that negatively impacts their self-esteem and identity. The realization of “differentness” from such interactions leads to self-blame and a desire to escape racial heritage by identifying with White society.

Answer 4

2. White identification - Kim

Question 5

Kim - this stage means the adoption of a new perspective, often correlated with increased political awareness. J. Kim (1981) believed that significant political events such as the civil rights and women’s movements often precipitate this new awakening. The primary result is an abandoning of identification with White society and a consequent understanding of oppression and oppressed groups.

Answer 5

3. awakening to social political consciousness

Kim

Question 6

Kim - this stage means a reconnection or renewed connection with one’s Asian American heritage and culture. This is often followed by the realization that White oppression is the culprit for the negative experiences of youth. Anger against White racism may become a defining theme, with concomitant increases of Asian American self-pride and group pride.

Answer 6

4. redirection - Kim

Question 7

Kim - this stage represents the highest form of identity evolution. It encompasses the development of a positive and comfortable identity as Asian American and consequent respect for other cultural/ racial heritages. Identification with a stance for or against White culture is no longer an important issue.

Answer 7

5. incorporation - Kim