Application Of Microaggression Theory Study Caste Based...

Application of Microaggression theory to study caste-based discrimination: â€Å"Every black child will recognize and defend promptly and adequately against every offensive micro-aggression. In this way, the toll that is registered after accumulation of such insults should be markedly reduced (Pierce, 1970, p. 280)†. Since more than two-decade higher education institutions in the U.S. have recognized issues of diversity and discrimination. Studies on diversity and discrimination are mainly grounded in race and identity issues. Discrimination of students of color or racism in higher education is parallel to caste-based discrimination. Gupta (2006) stated that discrimination based on caste in India and race in the U.S. are similar at†¦show more content†¦The concept of microaggression further developed by Derald Sue and colleagues in 2007, and defined â€Å"microaggressions are the brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, and environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory or negative racial, gender, sexual orientation, and religious slights and insults to the target person or group (Sue, 2010, p.5)†. Dr. Sue developed a robust theoretical framework and research tools (e.g. discourse analysis), which facilitate an opportunity to apply racial microaggression model in issues of gender, sexual orientation and stigmatized identities such as caste. In the theory of microaggression, Sue et al., (2007) explained taxonomic classification of microaggression messages in everyday life. Through the lenses of clinical psychology, Sue and his colleagues have identified three broad categories: 1) microassults, 2) microinsults, 3) microinvalidations. They also discuss various physical, mental and academic consequences on the recipients. However, microaggression theory has been criticized for amplifying the harmful impact on recipients (Schacht, 2008). The theory of microaggression offers deeper understanding about verbal and non-verbal exchanges between a subordinate and the dominant groups. The theory is widely explored to investigate implicit and explicit