Topic 1 The Definition of Micro-aggression

Whereas punching someone in the face is an obvious example of aggression, some types of aggression such as micro aggression are more subtle and therefore harder to recognize. Yet, the impact of micro aggression is just as real and harmful. As the term describes, it’s being aggressive, but in a subtle ‘small’ manner.

People in the field of researching micro aggression tend to use slightly different definitions, however, all definitions at least contain the following elements:

I.Every day, casual and/or subtle remarks, questions, actions or environmental factors

II.that are painful because they have to do with a person’s (voluntary or involuntary) membership of a group that’s discriminated against or subject to stereotypes

III.often -but not exclusively- without any harm intended.

The first aspect (I) considers what form micro aggressions can have (what does it look like?). You will read more about this in paragraph 2.1

The second aspect (II) explains who can be affected by micro aggressions. You will read more about this in paragraph 2.2

The third and last aspect (III) tells us more about the aggressors of micro aggression. Who or what can be micro aggressive and why?