I will place the meat on the grill : how self-identified Asian men shape their identity in the context of traditional European masculinity within New Zealand society : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University, Manawatū, Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

New Zealand as a nation has seen an influx of migrants from Asia in the last few decades although many Asians have been part of the New Zealand settlement project for several centuries. Ethnic minority status affords limited ability for Asian men to identify as masculine outside traditional European masculinity accepted in Aotearoa New Zealand society. Due to limited research within New Zealand on Asian masculinity, this research uses a qualitative approach to produce a nuanced understanding of Asian masculinity. Semi-structured interviews based on an ethnographic approach with self-identified Asian ethnicity men were conducted. Social Constructionism formed the epistemological basis of my study. The study aimed to investigate how men within the Asian minority community construct and negotiate their masculinity. All participants showed a strong inclination of masculinity being associated with responsibility and taking ownership. They discussed ‘taking charge’ and ‘accountability’ as something that men do. Support for social justice and helping others was considered masculine and often a moment of pride. Most participants related masculinity with physicality and the physical ability to compete and perform. Participants provided examples of understanding that they were different. Their understanding of uniqueness was from a cultural and racial perspective but also included their masculine identity in some instances. The stories of some participants highlighted experiences of exclusion against Asians within New Zealand society. The participants acknowledged a varying degree of agency as individual actors within their discourse. Some participants suggested that the bicultural understanding of the nation left marginal room for inclusion of the Asian masculine identity into the idea of a “Kiwi”. Other participants, however, did not believe that their “unique” position in society was exclusionary and they proudly associated their uniqueness with their identity. Stereotypes against Asians were prevalent and media influence was often limited or negative towards Asian men. All participants emerged with a very nuanced understanding of their position in society and showed intentions of being role models for others. Several participants were supportive of the idea that “othering” is reducing at a rapid pace within Aotearoa New Zealand society. This research presents the experiences of Asian men to assist with this change.