Repeated Exposure to Subtle Versus Overt Discrimination: Physiological and Psychological Stress Responses
When it comes to discrimination, there are different types that can impact individuals differently. While both subtle and overt forms of discrimination can have negative effects on individuals, the way they manifest themselves is unique. In this article, I will explore how repeated exposure to subtle versus overt discrimination affects physiological and psychological stress responses.
Subtle forms of discrimination are often more difficult to identify than overt forms because they occur through indirect means, such as microaggressions. Microaggressions are brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative stereotypes towards marginalized groups. These types of discrimination can be more damaging because they are less likely to be acknowledged and addressed, which can lead to long-term consequences for the individual experiencing them.
A Black woman may experience subtle racism when her coworkers exclude her from lunch plans or talk about her hair in a disparaging manner. This type of discrimination is not always obvious, but its cumulative effect can still cause stress and trauma over time.
Overt forms of discrimination are more direct and explicit. They involve intentional acts of prejudice and bias against members of certain groups, such as racial slurs or physical violence. While these types of discrimination are easier to recognize and respond to, they can also be more traumatic and harmful in the short term.
A gay man may experience overt discrimination if he is assaulted while walking down the street due to his sexual orientation.
Both subtle and overt discrimination have different effects on physiological stress responses. When exposed to repeated instances of either type of discrimination, individuals may experience an increase in cortisol levels, which is a hormone associated with stress. High levels of cortisol can lead to physiological changes, including increased blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, which can impact overall health and wellbeing. In addition, repeated exposure to discrimination can trigger the release of cytokines, which are proteins that play a role in inflammation and immune response. Chronic inflammation has been linked to various diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Psychologically, repeated exposure to any form of discrimination can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These emotions can negatively impact mental health and contribute to issues like substance abuse and suicide. Subtle forms of discrimination may cause individuals to internalize negative stereotypes about themselves, leading to feelings of shame and isolation, while overt forms can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance behavior, which can interfere with daily life.
Both subtle and overt discrimination can be detrimental to individuals' physical and psychological health, but they affect people differently based on their context and experiences. It is crucial for individuals to recognize when they are experiencing discrimination and take steps to protect themselves from its harmful effects. This includes seeking support from trusted friends or family members, engaging in self-care activities, and advocating for change within their communities.
It is essential for society as a whole to address and challenge discriminatory attitudes and behaviors to create a more equitable world for all.
How does repeated exposure to subtle versus overt discrimination affect physiological and psychological stress responses?
Repetitive exposure to both subtle and direct forms of discrimination can have detrimental consequences for an individual's physical health as well as their mental state. Physiologically speaking, experiencing racism, sexism, homophobia, ageism, ableism, and other types of prejudice may lead to increased levels of cortisol - the hormone associated with stress.