Question

Microaggressions are best described as

a. minor offenses that are typically unintentional and thus harmless in nature
b. the everyday slights, put-downs, invalidations, and insults directed toward a group
c. racist statements that cause minimal harm because they are micro in nature as opposed to macro
d. feelings of inferiority that racism and prejudice cause minority groups
e. underlying anger that oppressed groups feel but do not allow to surface

Answer 1

Microaggressions are everyday instances of subtle discrimination expressed through slight and often unintentional comments or behaviors against marginalized groups. These can stem from unconscious biases and contribute to a larger pattern of racism.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Microaggressions

Microaggressions are everyday slights, put-downs, invalidations, and insults directed toward individuals belonging to historically marginalized groups. These actions may occur in verbal or nonverbal forms and can convey hostile, derogatory, or negative messages based on one's association with a marginalized group. It is important to note that the person committing the microaggression might do so without conscious awareness of the negativity of their actions or words. A common example of a microaggression is when a person of color is frequently asked, "Where are you really from?", implying that despite their American upbringing, they are still viewed as an outsider.

This behavior is often a manifestation of unconscious bias and can significantly affect the psychological well-being of marginalized individuals. Individual or Interpersonal Racism as well as Systemic Racism are broader categories under which microaggressions can occur, contributing to a hostile and unwelcoming environment for those affected.