Bicultural Identity & Diet: A Study of Asian Americans and the Role of Schools

Abstract

Over the past decade, Asian Americans (AA) were the fastest growing racial group in the U.S. Though numerous studies have identified factors, such as diet, language, and discrimination, as relevant players in the acculturation and identity formation processes of AA, few focus on the perspectives of AA youth, especially within the high school setting. The present study aims to investigate how Asian American high school students’ dietary habits are related to their perception of their bicultural identity. Moreover, it seeks to identify what culture-related challenges AA students face and potential supportive strategies for schools. Using a qualitative, phenomenological approach, 10 AA students were surveyed and interviewed at a suburban public high school in the Pacific Northwest region of the U.S. Through content analysis of the survey and interview data, a few themes emerged in the following categories: a) Dietary habits and bicultural identity, b) Challenges with bicultural identity, and c) Suggestions for schools. Results suggest a strong correlation between dietary habits and perceptions about their bicultural identity. Confusion about cultural identity and negative racial comments or stereotypes were among the challenges, internal and external, identified. In addition to existing factors that contribute to AA students’ sense of cultural belonging at school, like cultural clubs, potential suggestions for schools include greater AAPI representation in the curriculum, faculty, and food offered. Implications include the implementation of the suggestions at schools and future research on AA identity, cultural challenges, and diversity efforts inside and outside of school.