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Peer support specialists' experiences of microaggressions
Ruth L Firmin1, Susan Mao2, Chyrell D Bellamy3
1Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles.
Psychological Services
|November 2, 2018
Summary
Peer support specialists frequently experience workplace microaggressions related to mental illness and their role. Despite negative impacts, they demonstrate resilience and coping strategies, though some leave their positions.
Area of Science:
- Mental Health Services
- Psychology
- Social Work
Background:
- Microaggressions negatively impact individuals with mental illness.
- Limited understanding exists regarding microaggressions experienced by peer support specialists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore microaggressions experienced by peer support specialists.
- To understand the impact of these experiences and coping strategies.
Main Methods:
- Online survey with open-ended questions administered to 65 peer support specialists.
- Directed content analysis used to code participant responses.
Main Results:
- Peer support specialists commonly experience workplace microaggressions concerning mental illness disclosure and their professional role.
- Responses included isolation, seeking support, coping, resilience, and motivation, but also job departures.
- Microaggressions negatively affected self-perception and role identity.
Conclusions:
- Microaggressions are prevalent for peer support specialists, impacting their well-being and professional roles.
- Peers exhibit significant resilience, coping mechanisms, and motivation despite adversity.
- Findings highlight the need for enhanced support systems for peer support specialists in mental health settings.