Microaggressions Online Impact Self-Esteem in Gender-Diverse Youth
Microaggressions are subtle verbal and nonverbal insults directed towards people based on their gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, religion, age, appearance, etc., which communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative messages about those groups. They often happen unintentionally but can be highly damaging to the target's self-esteem and mental health. In this article, we will examine how microaggressions online impact the self-esteem of gender-diverse youth.
Microaggressions online can take many forms, including name-calling, offensive jokes, stereotyping, invalidation, misgendering, exclusion, denial of access, and sexualization.
A trans person may encounter a comment like "That is not real" when they share that they identify as transgender or "You're just confused" if they express distress with their assigned gender at birth. These comments convey a message that the target is less than human and undeserving of respect.
Research suggests that exposure to microaggressions, particularly online, can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem in gender-diverse youth. One study found that young people who experienced more frequent microaggressions were more likely to have lower life satisfaction, higher levels of anxiety and depression, and decreased self-esteem. Another study found that exposure to microaggressions was associated with increased internalized homophobia, transphobia, and body dissatisfaction.
How Microaggressions Impact Self-Esteem
There are several mechanisms by which microaggressions may impact self-esteem. First, they communicate messages about the target's worthlessness or unworthiness. Second, they reinforce negative stereotypes about the group to which the target belongs, making them feel like an outsider or imposter. Third, they create fear of rejection, discrimination, and violence, leading to heightened vigilance and hypervigilance. Fourth, they erode trust in others, making it difficult for the target to form healthy relationships or seek support.
They can contribute to internalization of oppression, where the target begins to believe the negative messages themselves.
A trans person who experiences multiple instances of misgendering might begin to question their own gender identity, believing that they must be "confused" or "wrong." A non-binary person who is repeatedly told that their pronouns don't matter might start to doubt whether their identity is valid. An LGBTQ+ youth who sees other members of their community being ridiculed online might fear coming out publicly or speaking up against discrimination. These effects can lead to feelings of shame, hopelessness, and despair, ultimately harming their mental health and wellbeing.
Strategies for Dealing with Microaggressions Online
While microaggressions can be harmful, there are strategies that individuals and communities can use to cope and combat them. One approach is to educate oneself and others on the nature of microaggressions and their impact. This includes recognizing when one has engaged in microaggression and taking responsibility for it. Another strategy is to practice self-care, including seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals, engaging in activities that promote self-acceptance and resilience, and prioritizing one's own needs over those of others. Third, individuals can speak up against microaggressions, either by calling them out directly or reporting them to moderators. Fourth, they can work towards creating safer spaces online, such as establishing guidelines for respectful communication, promoting diversity and inclusion, and providing resources for targeted groups.
They can advocate for policy changes at the organizational level, such as implementing anti-discrimination policies and training programs.
Microaggressions online can have a profound impact on the self-esteem of gender-diverse youth, leading to negative emotional and psychological consequences.
With education, awareness, and action, we can create more inclusive and supportive online environments that value all identities and experiences.
How do microaggressions online impact self-esteem in gender-diverse youth?
Microaggressions are small, often subtle comments or actions that communicate negative attitudes towards marginalized groups, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. Research has found that these incidents can have significant impacts on mental health outcomes, such as lowered self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.