From Disparities to Progress: Cultural Reflexivity in Framing Asian American Mental Health Research

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper examines the current theory base that is explicit in research to understanding mental health disparities seen among Asian Americans. I will argue that the disparities framework is effectively insufficient due to the epistemological and ontological dominance of “mental illness” and “mental health services” via comparisons to non-Latino whites that is implicit in its methodology. Using a social constructionist conceptual framework as well as a critical discourse analysis, I will explicate the perpetuating limitations of the current disparities research agenda and propose cultural reflexivity in framing future research that may be more equitable and inclusive for Asian American health and well-being.