Soc.Culture.Jewish Newsgroups Frequently Asked Questions and Answers URL: www.scjfaq.org/faq/16-02.html

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Question 16.2:
Is there any truth to the myth of the Jewish American Princess?

While there may be a few token women who fit the stereotype, it's a cruel slur frequently directed at Jewish women in general, and not always by Jews. (see William Styron's Sophie's Choice, especially chapter 7, for some very offensive Jewish portrayals, including the JAP.)

The most common use of the slur "JAP" is by Jewish men who rationalize their habit of dating gentile women by slandering the Jewish women whom they could be dating. Many who use the term are unaware of its offensive nature, so if someone uses it innocently, politely ask them not to use the term.

The FAQ is a collection of documents that is an attempt to answer questions that are continually asked on the soc.culture.jewish family of newsgroups. It was written by cooperating laypeople from the various Judaic movements. You should not make any assumption as to accuracy and/or authoritativeness of the answers provided herein. In all cases, it is always best to consult a competent authority--your local rabbi is a good place to start.

Hopefully, the FAQ will provide the answer to your questions. If it doesn't, please drop Email to questions@scjfaq.org. The FAQ maintainer will endeavor to direct your query to an appropriate individual that can answer it. If you would like to be part of the group to which the maintainer directs questions, please drop a note to the FAQ maintainer at maintainer@scjfaq.org.

© (c) 1993-2002 Daniel P. Faigin <maintainer@scjfaq.org>