Micro-aggressions
Microaggressions are subtle, sometimes unintentional, everyday actions, comments, or behaviours that convey derogatory or negative messages about a person’s identity, typically related to their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or other aspects of their identity.
These actions can be brief and seem trivial, but they accumulate over time and can have a significant impact on the mental and emotional well-being of the individual targeted. Microaggressions can take various forms, including verbal, non-verbal, or environmental slights, and they often reflect biases and stereotypes.
Examples include making assumptions about someone’s abilities or cultural background, using inappropriate or offensive language, or subtly dismissing their experiences. Recognising and addressing microaggressions is an important step in promoting a more inclusive and respectful environment.
Microaggressions can also be targeted behaviours intended to communicate hostility and exclusion. It can be challenging for those who experience them to convey to others.