What are microaggressions, social exclusion, and peer acceptance?
Microaggressions are subtle and often unintentional forms of discrimination that occur when one person makes an insensitive remark about another's race, gender, age, sexual orientation, physical appearance, disability, socioeconomic status, religion, or culture. Social exclusion is the act of intentionally or unintentionally excluding someone from a group or activity based on their race, gender, age, sexual orientation, physical appearance, disability, socioeconomic status, religion, or culture. Peer acceptance refers to how well-liked a person feels among their peers based on their race, gender, age, sexual orientation, physical appearance, disability, socioeconomic status, religion, or culture.
How do experiences of microaggressions, social exclusion, or peer acceptance shape self-esteem?
Experiences of microaggressions, social exclusion, or peer acceptance can have a significant impact on self-esteem. When people experience microaggressions, they may feel like they don't belong in certain spaces or groups. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. Experiences of social exclusion can also lead to negative emotions such as anger, frustration, embarrassment, or sadness, which can further reduce self-esteem. Positive experiences of peer acceptance, on the other hand, can boost self-esteem by making people feel valued and appreciated for who they are.
How do experiences of microaggressions, social exclusion, or peer acceptance shape agency?
Experiences of microaggressions, social exclusion, or peer acceptance can affect one's sense of agency or ability to take action in different situations. If people feel marginalized or excluded due to their identity, they may be less likely to speak up or act assertively in certain situations. On the other hand, positive experiences of peer acceptance can increase confidence and motivate people to take risks and pursue new opportunities.
How do experiences of microaggressions, social exclusion, or peer acceptance shape career trajectory?
Experiences of microaggressions, social exclusion, or peer acceptance can shape career trajectories in various ways. People who face discrimination or marginalization may be less likely to pursue certain jobs or fields that are not perceived as welcoming or supportive of their identities. Positive experiences of peer acceptance, however, can inspire people to pursue ambitious goals and work harder towards them.
Feelings of belonging and acceptance at work can increase job satisfaction and motivation to stay and advance within an organization.
How do experiences of microaggressions, social exclusion, or peer acceptance shape self-esteem, agency, and career trajectory?
The experience of being a victim of microaggression, social exclusion, or peer rejection can have significant effects on an individual's sense of self-worth, autonomy, and professional pathway. Research has indicated that these experiences can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, reduced confidence, and decreased motivation (Abedin et al. , 2017).