Microaggression is a term used to describe commonplace verbal, behavioral, or environmental slights, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative attitudes toward stigmatized or culturally marginalized groups. These are everyday, subtle, intentional, and oftentimes unintentional interactions or behaviors that communicate some sort of bias towards historically marginalized groups. Microaggressions are thought to spring from unconsciously held prejudices and beliefs which may be demonstrated consciously or unconsciously through daily verbal interactions. Psychologist Derald Wing Sue defines microaggressions as "brief, everyday exchanges that send denigrating messages to certain individuals because of their group membership". The persons making the comments may be otherwise well-intentioned and unaware of the potential impact of their words. Microaggressions can target many aspects of ones identity, such as race, gender, sexuality, parental status, socioeconomic background, mental health, or any other aspect of identity.
Microaggressions are different from other rude or insensitive actions or comments because they are more than just insults, insensitive comments, or generalized jerky behavior. They are often subtle and may appear to be a compliment or a joke, but contain a hidden insult about a group of people. Examples of microaggressions include what would be labeled as microinsults, such as someone who presumes that an Asian American wouldnt speak English.
Microaggressions can have big, life-altering impacts, and there is a mental health toll to these constant, repetitive stressors. The presumption of violence can lead to the police being called, which often doesnt end well. Microaggressions can lead to increased rates of depression, prolonged stress and trauma, physical concerns like headaches, high blood pressure, and difficulties with sleep.
Recognizing and responding to microaggressions is important in creating more inclusive and culturally competent workplace cultures. Getting better at noticing and responding to microaggressions, and at being more aware of our everyday speech, is a journey, one with a real effect on our mental health and well-being at work.
