American Born Chinese (TV)

Exhibit by Jiaming

This visual essay aims to examine how implicit bias affects Asian Americans on both an individual basis and on the structural level by investigating phenomena such as the model minority myth and microaggressions. 

Jin (left) eating lunch with Wei-Chen (right)

Overview

American Born Chinese is a Disney+ Original Series and based on Gene Luen Yang’s graphic novel of the same name. The show features three intertwining stories, one of which follows Jin Wang, a Taiwanese-American in a predominantly white high school trying to find his identity. One day, a Chinese exchange student named Wei-Chen joins Jin’s school, and Jin feels embarrassed being associated with Wei-Chen’s loud and open nature.

The second story involves the interactions between Jin and this exchange student Wei-Chen, who turns out to be the son of Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, who is an iconic figure of Chinese literature. After experiencing a prophetic dream about a mythical “Fourth Scroll” that can stop an uprising against heaven, Wei-Chen steals his father’s magical staff and is convinced that the teenager he saw in his dream is Jin. Thus starts a chaotic and exciting series of events where Jin finds himself caught in battles between mythical Chinese legends.

The third and final story that we get to see in this series is that of the character Jamie Yao, a Hollywood actor who is known for playing Freddy Wong in a 90s sitcom called Beyond Repair, where he repeats the phrase “What could go Wong?” in each episode. As this catchphrase becomes viral on TikTok, Jin suffers from microaggressions from his classmates, and Jamie reflects on his experience playing such a heavily stereotyped role. Throughout the show, Jin and the other Asian American characters face anti-Asian implicit bias. American Born Chinese is an action-packed and incredible coming-of-age story, but also illustrates how certain actions and stereotypes have racial undertones that unintentionally harm Asian Americans.

Through American Born Chinese and five other media objects, this visual essay aims to examine how implicit bias affects Asian Americans on both an individual basis and on the structural level by investigating phenomena such as the model minority myth and microaggressions.

Notable Characters

A list of the names and descriptions of notable characters who appear multiple times in my visual essay, for your reference.

  • A Taiwanese-American in the tenth grade; the show’s protagonist

  • A Chinese exchange student who is also the son of the Monkey King; believes Jin to be the mythical “Fourth Scroll” that he is searching for

  • Jin’s father and mother

  • An actor who played Freddy Wong in the 90s sitcom Beyond Repair

Introduction to Implicit Bias

Asian Americans are subject to a unique set of stereotypes that portrays them as a model minority while simultaneously carrying racism and xenophobia. One way to look at how and why Asian Americans are treated this way is to examine implicit bias, or implicit biases, which are “unconscious attitudes and stereotypes that can manifest in the criminal justice system, workplace, school setting, and in the healthcare system.” [1]

There is clear data that indicates the prevalence of less overt discrimination. In one study, overall, 26% of Southeast Asian refugees in Vancouver, Canada reported racial discrimination, and of these people, 4.8% reported threats, 4.8% reported racial graffiti on their property, and 4.2% reported physical abuse. However, 83% reported being looked down upon, and 74.4% reported being unfairly treated. While this part of the study took place in Canada, it demonstrates that while implicit bias may seem subtle, its repercussions are widespread, emphasizing the need to have further research in this area. [2]

Reports of discrimination also vary by subgroup, with 38% of Vietnamese participants in the National Latino and Asian-American Study reporting unfair treatment versus 61% of Chinese participants. Another study, the 2003 California Health Interview Survey, found that 42% of Vietnamese felt unfairly treated due to their race compared to 75% of Japanese. [3]

In a 2012 study, an Indian-American doctor Sunil Subramanya recalls that he was frequently pulled over by white police officers who racially profiled him as suspicious since he drives in primarily white Southern California neighborhoods. In one incident, an officer explicitly told him that he looked suspicious, and pointed his flashlight towards the back seat to check for suspicious items. After noticing Sunil’s white coat and stethoscope in the back seat, the officer then asked why he had “doctor paraphernalia.” Sunil showed his hospital badge and explained that he was a resident at the local hospital, to which “the police officer apologized for his unwarranted racial profiling, and also overlooked Sunil's lack of current license and registration.” [4] The officer’s response demonstrates his implicit association of non-white men with suspicious activities, perhaps as well as his favoritism towards Indian Americans as opposed to Black or Hispanic people. The fact that Sunil has experienced this situation multiple times reflects the prevalence of racial profiling of Indian Americans. 

Jin’s principal introduces Jin to Wei-Chen, the new exchange student. (From left to right: Wei-Chen, the principal, Jin)

In one particular scene of Episode 1 of American Born Chinese, the principal of the school introduces Jin to Wei-Chen, asking Jin to show Wei-Chen around. Her line “He’s Chinese, like you” clearly shows why Jin in particular was chosen for this role, and demonstrates the principal’s implicit bias that somehow, having a Chinese student show Wei-Chen around would be more effective than anyone else. She unconsciously groups Asian Americans together with no reasoning as to why.

Implicit bias operates as an invisible force shaping perceptions and behaviors, often leading to unfair treatment and reinforcing harmful stereotypes. The experiences recounted by individuals, such as the racial profiling of Dr. Sunil Subramanya and the selection based on ethnicity in American Born Chinese, emphasize the negative impacts of implicit bias on Asian Americans.

The Model Minority Myth

Implicit bias is intertwined with the concept of a “model minority,” which is the assumption that Asian Americans are the highest-achieving racial minority. Studies of college students showed that Asian Americans were associated with traits like quiet, hardworking, and academically successful [5]. The first use of this term traces back to the 1960s, where academics, journalists, and politicians used it to downplay the extent of racism [6]. The model minority stereotype may seem like it does no harm but can make Asian Americans seem unworthy of attention. Since 1992, 0.17% of all National Institutes of Health funding has gone to projects related to Asian Americans despite Asian Americans making up 6% of the US population [7]. Without addressing the mental repercussions of the model minority stereotype, the issue of neglecting Asian Americans in much-needed studies is only exacerbated. 

In American Born Chinese, the principal of Jin’s school meets with Jin and his parents to discuss Jin’s misdemeanors. During their meeting, rather than directly addressing Jin’s violent actions, she directs her attention to the family, assuming that problems at home may be causing Jin to feel violent and frustrated. Christine, Jin’s mother, suggests that it may simply be because Jin is going through puberty, as he is indeed a teenager, but the principal instead concludes that because the Wang family is very achievement-based, Jin feels pressured and has turned to violence to vent his anger. Her response is a clear example of the use of the model minority to make assumptions about Asian Americans. 

Simon defends his family from the principal’s implicit bias.

The principal discusses Jin’s behavior with his parents.

Simon, Jin’s father, immediately recognizes the racial bias that the principal has towards him and his family. Unable to simply sit and listen to the principal give them parenting advice and resources, He immediately points out that she thinks Jin and his family are different in the sense that they are Asian in a predominantly-white community. Jin’s father vehemently defends his family and points out the principal’s ignorance in her tunnel vision, stating “We are achievement-based because we have to be” [8]. He explains that Christine pushes their son because she knows he can handle it, demonstrating the principal’s invalidation of individual experiences in favor of generalizing an entire group of people.

Simon’s bold response to the principal serves as a powerful example of challenging the model minority myth. However, the broader issue of implicit bias still persists in society. By highlighting Simon’s confrontation with the principal, the show also indicates that not all Asian American individuals feel empowered to address implicit bias and stereotypes such as the model minority so directly. 

Despite the diversity of backgrounds, achievements, and experiences among Asian Americans, they are frequently subjected to the oversimplified perception that reduces them to a singular, achievement-focused stereotype: the model minority. This stereotype gives a convenient reason to ignore the problem of discrimination against Asian Americans, and as mentioned in the beginning of this section, also disqualifies them as worthy of research and intervention programs. Addressing implicit bias on an individual level is a significant step, but systemic change requires ongoing dialogue and efforts to challenge stereotypes like the model minority. The next section on microaggressions reiterates the importance of understanding that subtle expressions of bias contribute to a larger pattern of the invalidation of individual experiences that Asian Americans face as a whole.

Microaggressions

Microaggressions are often the verbal manifestation of implicit bias and reflect stereotypes such as the model minority. The National Institutes of Health defines microaggressions as “verbal, nonverbal, and environmental slights, snubs, or insults–whether intentional or unintentional–that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative messages to individuals based solely upon their marginalized group membership” [9]. In a 2007 study, researchers found common themes among Asian American participants such as feeling alienated, invisible, or even a second-class citizen [10]. Microaggressions reported by participants included “If I see lots of Asian students in my class, I know it’s going to be a hard class,” and “Asians are the new Whites” [11]. The research shows that participants felt pressured to conform, and in fact would try to rationalize these microaggressions if they came from close acquaintances or friends.

Whether these stereotypes are intentionally harmful or not, they can negatively affect Asian Americans by “robbing people of their individuality, increasing scapegoating, and directly reinforcing prejudice and bias,” as said by Dr. Wei-Chin Hwang in a journal article focusing on internalized racism against Asian Americans [12]. Dr. Hwang also uses the term “psychological false consciousness” to describe minorities minimizing and devaluing their ethnicity to fit in and avoid judgment, which was a trend seen among participants in the 2007 study [13].

Travis makes a joke about the “What could go Wong?” meme

During soccer tryouts, Travis references the viral meme “What could go Wong?” as a play on words for “What could go wrong?” but deliberately and slyly looks at Jin as he does so. Rather than going for the ball, an enraged Jin tackles Travis, demanding that he say that again to his face. As the coach tries to calm him down, he addresses Jin as “Jim,” causing Jin to become even angrier.

Jin tackles Travis for his racially-charged comment.

Jin’s frustration with Travis’ backhanded comment reflects the frustration that many Asian Americans experience when dealing with microaggressions. In a wider social context, the normalization of racially charged memes such as the “What could go Wong?” Tiktok downplays the negative consequences that Asian Americans feel, like how Jin felt when Travis made that comment. While Travis’ racially charged actions were more explicit, microaggressions can also be subtle and unconscious, which is also characterized by implicit bias. On both an individual and societal level, microaggressions invalidate Asian Americans and reduce them to harmful stereotypes.

Jamie describes his experience in Hollywood as an Asian-American actor.

Implicit Bias in Hollywood

In one of the later episodes, Jin watches a Beyond Repair cast reunion that includes Jamie Yao, the actor who played Freddie Wong. The segment begins with the host congratulating Jamie for reaching Tiktok stardom with the popularity of the “What could go Wong?” meme, and as the audience watches and laughs at some of these Tiktoks, Jamie’s facial expressions clearly show his discomfort. Jamie’s frustration starts to show when he reveals that he left Hollywood because after Beyond Repair, the only parts he was offered were nerds and neighbors. Jin watches Jamie as he openly and honestly expresses his desire to play a hero that inspires someone watching him.

Jamie’s experience in Hollywood illustrates how implicit bias is prevalent through the entertainment industry and contributes to the perception of Asian Americans. In an earlier episode, the younger brother of a key character is seen watching Beyond Repair, suggesting the potential influence of racially insensitive television shows on younger generations and the lasting impact it may have on their perspectives of Asian Americans as they mature. This portrayal highlights the notion that the media consumed during formative years can shape the way individuals think and perceive race, contributing to the broader cultural influence that can persist into adulthood. The limited range of roles offered to Jamie are confined to stereotypes such as nerds and neighbors, which reflects the industry’s unconscious propensity to categorize actors based on ethnicity. By challenging this implicit bias, the entertainment industry can move towards inclusivity that authentically represents the diversity of experiences of Asian Americans.

Media Objects

Asian Americans: Battling Bias

This mini-documentary from CBS News looks into anti-Asian American discrimination during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the interviewees remarks that because of the awakening of anti-Asian sentiments during the pandemic, some of the younger generations have been experiencing more open and explicit racial attacks. In American Born Chinese, this is shown by Travis’ backhanded comment toward Jin.

Hasan Learns What It’s Like To Grow Up Desi In 2019

Actor Hasan Minhaj interviews Desi teenagers about their experiences as Desi-Americans. The teenagers recount the numerous microaggressions they have experienced and what stereotypes they have been assumed to fit under, many of which relate to the participants’ religion. Their responses show a clear connection between microaggressions and implicit bias against Desi-Americans.

Fresh off the Boat

In this clip, Jessica, one of the main characters in the TV series Fresh off the Boat, shares how she strived to always keep her head down and stay quiet to fulfill the model minority myth. At the end of the clip, she shares how she does not want her children to experience the same powerlessness that she did. In a similar fashion, Christine encourages Simon to speak up for himself at his job rather than keep quiet. Both scenes portray the struggle of combating against the stereotype that Asian Americans are quiet and submissive.

‘They’re not like the others’: Breaking down the dangers of the model minority myth

The voices in this video are particularly powerful, with one of the interviewees expressing his frustration over the pressure to rise to the stereotypes stemming from the model minority myth to finally be seen–and be seen as white. Similarly, Jin’s principal shares her thoughts on the Wangs’ “achievement-based” family system, and while she does not intend any harm with her comments, they reflect the idea of Asian Americans being viewed as a set of stereotypes.

Growing Up Korean American | My Struggles

Jenn Im touches on some topics also found in Hasan’s interview, but also shares her own unique story, showing that not every Asian American minority necessarily experiences the same types of microaggressions. Jenn touches on being bullied simply for being Asian and feeling alienated by her peers. Her story and the character of Jamie Yao reflect the deep sense of alienation that Asian Americans experience because of implicit bias against them.

Concluding Statements

American Born Chinese gives insight into the pervasive impact of implicit bias on Asian Americans. The intertwining stories of Jin, Wei-Chen, and Jamie show the complicated nature of implicit bias—from microaggressions in everyday interactions to the structural limitations imposed by the model minority myth and the entertainment industry’s methods of casting. Implicit bias, as demonstrated by instances such as the principal's assumptions about Jin and the systemic limitations on Jamie’s casting choices, operates as an almost invisible force that shapes perceptions and behaviors on both an individual and societal level.

Through the lens of implicit bias, the model minority myth emerges as a societal construct that oversimplifies the diverse experiences of Asian Americans. The confrontations between Jin’s family and the principal highlight the need to challenge these stereotypes and emphasize the importance of acknowledging individuality over generalizations.

Microaggressions, verbal expressions manifested from implicit bias, further contribute to the invalidation of Asian American experiences. Travis’ racially charged comment and the normalization of memes like “What could go Wong?” in the show depict the subtle ways in which biases reinforce harmful stereotypes.

American Born Chinese is not only a fantasy and comedy show, but it also serves as a powerful call-to-action, urging society to recognize and challenge implicit bias.

References

  1. Ruhl, Charlotte. “Implicit Bias (Unconscious Bias): Definition & Examples.” Simply Psychology, August 2, 2023. https://www.simplypsychology.org/implicit-bias.html.

  2. Gee, Gilbert C., Annie Ro, Salma Shariff-Marco, and David Chae. 2009. “Racial Discrimination and Health Among Asian Americans: Evidence, Assessment, and Directions for Future Research.” Epidemiologic Reviews 31, no. 1 (October): 130-151. 10.1093/epirev/mxp009.

  3. Ibid.

  4. Murti, Lata. “Who Benefits from the White Coat? Gender Differences in Occupational Citizenship among Asian-Indian Doctors.” Ethnic and Racial Studies 35, no. 12 (2012): 2035–53. https://doi.org/10.1080/01419870.2011.631555.

  5. Thompson, T. L., & Kiang, L. (2010). The model minority stereotype: Adolescent experiences and links with adjustment. Asian American Journal of Psychology, 1(2), 119–128. https://doi.org/10.1037/a001996.

  6. Abrams, Zara. 2019. “Countering stereotypes about Asian Americans.” American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/12/countering-stereotypes.

  7. Yip, Tiffany, Charissa S. Cheah, Lisa Kiang, and Gordon C. Hall. “Rendered Invisible: Are Asian Americans a Model or a Marginalized Minority?” American Psychologist 76, no. 4 (March 2021): 575–81. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000857.

  8. Disney+, American Born Chinese, Season 1, 2023.

  9. “Microaggressions.” National Institutes of Health. Accessed November 3, 2023. https://diversity.nih.gov/sociocultural-factors/microaggressions.

  10. Sue, Derald W., Jennifer Bucceri, Annie I. Lin, Kevin L. Nadal, and Gina C. Torino. 2007. “Racial Microaggressions and the Asian American Experience.” Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology 13 (1): 72-81. https://doi.org/10.1037/1099-9809.13.1.72.

  11. Ibid.

  12. Hwang, Wei-Chin. 2021. “Demystifying and Addressing Internalized Racism and Oppression Among Asian Americans.” American Psychologist 76 (4): 586-610. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000798.

  13. Ibid.

Photos

“American Born Chinese,” 2023. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15552018/

Disney+, American Born Chinese, Season 1, 2023.

Herman, Alison. Disney+’s Coming-of-Age Comic Book Adaptation ‘American Born Chinese’ Is Overcrowded, but Endearing: TV Review. May 24, 2023. Photograph. https://variety.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/162451_5172_v2_2a84cc3a.jpeg