ISSN : 2233-6710(Print)
ISSN : 2384-2121(Online)
ISSN : 2384-2121(Online)
Journal of Asia Pacific Counseling Vol.15 No.2 pp.1-14
DOI : https://doi.org/10.18401/2025.15.2.1
DOI : https://doi.org/10.18401/2025.15.2.1
Fetishization of Asian Women in the United States: Empowering Asian Counseling Clients
Abstract
A growing body of literature and research recognizes fetishization in the United States as a historical issue for Asian women. The objectification and sexualization of Asian women have contributed to numerous biopsychosocial issues and barriers for this population. Counseling Asian clients involves understanding and validating these systemic racial and gender issues. It is imperative to recognize and initiate increased understanding to combat issues of fetishization with clients who identify as Asian women in the United States, for whom advocacy is necessary, particularly for marginalized women. This article compiles recent research that demonstrates the benefit of educating clients who face oppression and fetishization. We provide suggestions from an Asian American studies’ framework to empower Asian women through advocacy efforts as professional counselors and methods to help them embrace their racial and cultural identities.