Micro-affirmations

MICRO-AFFIRMATIONS

Taxonomy of Microagressions

Microinsult

Subtle communications demeaning an individual's heritage/identity as a member of any marginalized group 

Microassault

Explicit, intentional communication conveyed in a small("micro") or private setting and meant to hurt an individual belonging to a marginalized group; such communications are most likely conscious and deliberate

Microinvalidation

Communications that nullify or diminish the experience, thoughts, or feelings of a person from a marginalized group; assumptions made/not acknowledging differences 

Taxonomy of Microaffirmations 

Microcompliment

Subtle communication implying praise, admiration, or respect; very likely verbal

Microsupport

Explicit, intentional communication providing feedback or scaffolding of resources to support individuals who may feel unwelcome or invisible in an environment 

Microvalidation

Communication expressing appreciation or empathy regarding the experiences, thoughts, or feelings of an individual who may feel unwelcome or invisible 

Content adopted from:

SMALL ACTS. BIG IMPACT.

MICRO-AFFIRMATIONS WORKSHOP

James Ellis and Candice Powell

  • Sue, D.W., Capodilupo, C.M, Torino, G.C., Bucceri, J.M., Holder, A.M.B., Nadal, K.L., and Esquilin, M. (2007). Racial Microagressions in Everyday Life: Implications for Clinical Practice. American Psychologist, 6 (4), 271-286.
  • Ellis, J. M., Powell, C. S., Demetriou, C. P., Huerta-Bapat, C., & Panter, A. T. (2018). Examining first-generation college student lived experiences with microaggressions and microaffirmations at a predominately White public research university. Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology.