Microaggressions contribute to marginalization and can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among individuals, particularly adolescents. Social workers can support affected individuals by validating their experiences, promoting coping strategies, and facilitating open dialogues in a safe environment. Addressing the impacts of microaggressions is essential for fostering cultural competence and self-identity.

1. Microaggressions create an environment of marginalization, exclusion, and disrespect, leading to
anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. They can further create an environment of distrust,
fear, and hostility which can impede communication and collaboration between individuals. For
example, Alex and Coach depict how a series of microaggressions can lead to alienation,
frustration, and a lack of self-esteem (Walden University, 2021). The video highlights how
microaggressions can lead to feeling misunderstood and lacking belonging (Walden University,
2021). As a social worker, I would respond by listening to their stories, validating their feelings,
and offering support. I would help the student identify strategies to cope with the
microaggressions they are experiencing, such as utilizing self-care activities, connecting with a
support system, and seeking counseling. In the video, I demonstrated several practice skills, such
as active listening, empathy, a non-judgmental attitude, and cultural humility. I used reflective
listening to demonstrate my understanding of the student's experiences and feelings.
The potential impacts of ethnic and racial microaggressions on adolescent psychological
development can be far-reaching and long-lasting (Walden University, 2021). Such experiences
can create shame, guilt, and anger, leading to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. They can
lead to feelings of isolation and marginalization, leading to an increased risk of engaging in high-
risk behaviors such as substance use. Additionally, microaggressions can leave adolescents
feeling disconnected from their cultural and racial identities, resulting in a lack of cultural
competency and pride.
As a social worker, I would create an open dialogue where the student can share their
experiences and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental space. This would allow the student to
gain insight into their feelings and help to create an action plan to address the negative impacts
of microaggressions (Walden University, 2021). A key part of this process would be to utilize
the values and ethics of the profession. This includes ensuring the student's rights to self-
determination, confidentiality, and respect. Additionally, I would provide the student with
resources and tools to help them effectively manage and cope with the negative impacts of
microaggressions.
Respond
to two colleagues by providing constructive feedback on their choice of methodological
approach. Would a different approach be more appropriate or effective in answering the research
question? Why or why not?