Microaggressions are subtle but offensive comments or actions that are unintentional and reinforce a prior mental image. They occur when someone allows pattern matching to make assumptions about someone based on inappropriate stereotypes, and then dictate their actions based upon those assumptions.
Microaggressions further marginalize those who may already feel marginalized and they have a significant “othering” effect, regardless of intention. Whether or not the aggressor was trying to be offensive, actions like this send a very clear message to the recipient that they are seen as an embodiment of the stereotypes surrounding their demographic.
Download this tip sheet to learn how you and your employees can spot microaggressions in the workplace.
