Keywords

Asian American adoptees; adoption; implicit bias; Asian; model minority; clinical

Abstract

Asian American adoptees occupy a unique “in-between” space, shaped by societal perceptions of race, culture, and family context. This study examined how family composition and racial pairings influence perceptions of an Asian American adoptee. Undergraduate students completed an online survey in which they were randomly shown one of five images depicting the adoptee with different family compositions, without being told she was adopted. Participants then read a story describing the adoptee experiencing common college stressors, and rated statements on a 7-point Likert scale regarding the adoptee’s well-being, factors influencing her behavior, and behavioral descriptors. Results indicated that participants perceived stronger familial support and relationships when a White parent was present and were more likely to attribute mental health concerns when the adoptee was depicted with two White parents. Gender and cultural assumptions also influenced judgments, including counter-stereotypical views of agency. Participants’ own family racial background also influenced ratings, suggesting that observers may project their own experiences with racial diversity onto their judgments. These findings demonstrate that subtle cues in family and racial composition can shape perceptions of Asian American adoptees and highlight the importance of clinician awareness of implicit biases and cultural context in assessing minority clients. This study contributes to a gap in the literature by examining societal perceptions about Asian American adoptees and their potential implications for understanding and supporting this population in clinical settings.

Thesis Completion Year

2026

Thesis Completion Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair

Sims, Valerie

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Thesis Discipline

Psychology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Download

Supplemental Files

Share

COinS
 

Accessibility Statement

This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.