Assumptions of Asian American similarity: the case of Filipino and Chinese American students.

The conventional research model of clustering ethnic groups into four broad categories risks perpetuating a pedagogy of stereotypes in social work policies and practice methods. Using an elaborated research model, this study tested the assumption of cultural similarity of Filipino and Chinese American college students by examining attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs related to dating violence. The sample included Chinese, Filipino, Hispanic, and white undergraduate students from a large urban university. Findings suggest that Filipino students are more similar to white students than to Chinese students. Regardless of ethnic group, women had more similarities with one another than men in their attitudes toward women. The findings were mixed regarding definitions and justifications of violence.

Partner violence, depression, and practice implications with families of Chinese descent.

Because the Chinese tend to display psychological problems such as depression in somatic This article examines cultural aspects, experiences, and the mental health consequences of partner violence among families of Chinese descent. A total of 262 Chinese men and women participated in a telephone survey about partner violence and psychological well-being. Symptoms, two indicators of mental health were employed in the research study. Findings indicated a high level of verbal aggression both perpetrated and sustained by participants. Rates of physical abuse were lower; however, these figures dispel the model minority myth associated with Asian Americans. In addition, findings showed a positive correlation between depression and partner violence. Those who experienced verbal and physical aggression by a spouse/intimate partner in the last 12 months were more likely to experience depression. Those who perpetrated physical aggression were more likely to experience somatic symptoms. Practice and research implications are highlighted.