The portrayal of Asian Americans as the “model minority” also spreads to include the image of the ideal student.  Commonly depicted as working harder and studying more than students of other races, Asian American students are stereotyped as “robots.”  As a result, Asian American students are often treated with a discourse of potential, as if their inherent perseverance and intelligence will ultimately lead to success.  Commonly portrayed as the students to mimic, or the standard to be met, Asian Americans are actually hindered and victimized by this deceiving form of racist love.
In a society supposedly based on meritocracy, the stereotypical hardworking Asian American student is viewed in society as not needing any helping hands.  In fact, often affirmative action is deceivingly shown as a hindrance to Asian American students by giving away hard earned spots to “less deserving” minority students, such as African and Latino Americans.  However, in reality, Asian American students and professionals would not be where they are today without some form of affirmative action.  Thus the Asian American community is primed by the “model minority” myth to oppose affirmative action programs as unfair treatment.
        In effect, the “model minority” myth serves as divisive tool for conservative white Americans to strike down affirmative action programs and create a buffer for themselves in the debate.  Inciting strong opposition in the Asian American community against affirmative action refocuses Latino and African American discontent onto Asian Americans, shielding conservative whites from criticism.  Latino and African American students develop a sort of hostility towards Asian Americans for benefiting from affirmative action as well as condemning it.  Thus the “model minority” myth serves two purposes; to increase opposition to affirmative action programs, and to incite bitterness towards Asian Americans for benefiting the most from affirmative action.