If so, you might have experienced what is called a microaggression.
What Are Microaggressions?
Below are some definitions of microaggressions as well as ideas on how to reduce them or minimize their impact.
Verywell / Catherine Song
Later in 2007, Columbia University psychologist Derald Sue further popularized and defined the term.
Types of Microaggressions
Derald Sue and colleagues went on to discuss different subtypes of microaggressions.
Most often they are done intentionally and the person doing them knows that they are harmful and derogatory.
In other words, a micro invalidation might follow a micro assault or micro insult.
Groups Affected by Microaggressions
What groups are affected by microaggressions?
Any marginalized group has the potential to be the target of microaggressions.
Examples of Microaggressions
What are some examples of microaggressions?
Microaggressions have also been associated with other psychological impairments including low self worth and PTSD.
What if it is a family member or a person in authority?
All of these issues compound the microaggressions and create a haze of self-doubt that leads to lower mental health.
In this way, it’s not just about your feelings being hurt.
It’s about chronic stress that elicits anger and anxiety and has devastating long-term effects.
Coping With Microaggressions
How do you cope if you are the target of microaggressions?
Don’t worry, you are not alone.
However, it is important to take some sort of action to protect your mental health.
This is how we see gradual change in the world.
In this way, the only way to stop microaggressions is for everyone to confront their own inherent biases.
Above all else, think before you speak and consider how it will impact those around you.
Microaggressions cause others to feel dismissed, alienated, insulted, or invalidated.
They make differences in power and privilege more apparent and perpetuate stereotypes and racism.
Underlying Causes of Microaggressions
What are the underlying causes of microaggressions?
Will you continue to perpetuate stereotypes or will you adjust your biases to better align with reality?
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