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.