The Model Minority Thesis Revisited

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Abstract
In this article, the author explores whether Asian Americans in science and engineering fit the image of a successful Model Minority and whether, compared to whites and blacks, Asian Americans have similar chances of moving into management. Drawing from National Science Foundation panel data, this study examines the likelihood of whites, blacks, and Asians moving into management across occupational fields and organizations. Results indicate that only in certain occupations and organizations are Asian American males and females doing as well as their white peers. In contrast, blacks seem to have mobility comparable to whites across fields and organizations. The racial patterns of the career mobility of scientists and engineers provide mixed evidence for the thesis that Asian Americans are a successful Model Minority in professional occupations.