Policing Asian communities in the United States: a systematic literature review and discussion

Abstract

PurposeThis article aims to synthesize published research on the policing of Asian communities in the United States.Design/methodology/approachThis is a systematic literature review using PRISMA 2020 guidelines.FindingsSixteen studies were reviewed. Five examined violence by police against Asian community members and reported rates for Asians closer to those against Whites than against members of other groups. One study found no relationship between violence against police and increased minority representation on the force. Four studies reported conflicting results regarding traffic stops of Asian motorists and in general perceptions of police anti-Asian bias. One study illustrated how racialization processes reproduce inequality both between racial-ethnic categories and within them. Five studies examined Asian community members’ general attitudes toward/satisfaction with police and reported—with qualifications—generally favorable attitudes and satisfaction with them.Originality/value This is the first systematic literature review of policing Asian communities in the United States.