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Microaggression and Implicit Bias
Jacquelyn Turner1, Robert Higgins2, Ed Childs1
1Department of Surgery, 1374Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Abstract:
Microaggression is an unconscious statement or action regarded as discrimination against a marginalized community. Microaggression coupled with implicit bias (unconscious prejudice in favor or against one person or group) can be psychologically damaging to the targeted community. The difficulty with microaggressions and implicit biases is that they are subjective and unconscious, and the offender may not view them as damaging. Microaggressions and implicit biases can affect both the patient and the physician. Whether it is the patient that is the victim of these phenomena or the physician, the goal of quality patient care is adversely affected. When patients are victims, bias can also lead to systematic dismissal of symptoms, inferior medical services, and less aggressive preventive care. Physicians who are victims of such phenomena may deal with the repeated trauma of receiving microaggressions and biases from patients and/or colleagues which may cause mental distress and ultimately functional impairment affecting work performance. In either case, repeated direct and indirect exposure of microaggressions and biases through encounters within and outside the workforce are cumulative leading to lasting internalized damage. Awareness that implicit biases and microaggressions exist and recognition that these phenomena are problematic are the first steps toward fostering a more equitable and inclusive culture. As a society and especially as health care workers, we must become increasingly culturally aware and sensitive of all communities for the ultimate good of patient care.
Insights
Microaggressions and implicit biases negatively impact patient care and physician well-being. Recognizing these unconscious actions is crucial for fostering equitable and inclusive healthcare environments.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Microaggressions are unconscious discriminatory actions impacting marginalized communities.
- Implicit biases, or unconscious prejudices, exacerbate the psychological harm caused by microaggressions.
- The subjective and unconscious nature of these phenomena makes them difficult to address.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the detrimental effects of microaggressions and implicit biases on patient care and healthcare professionals.
- To highlight the cumulative and internalized damage resulting from repeated exposure.
- To emphasize the importance of awareness and cultural sensitivity in healthcare.
Main Methods:
- This study is a conceptual analysis and synthesis of existing literature on microaggressions and implicit bias in healthcare.
- Qualitative review of psychological and sociological impacts on patients and physicians.
- Exploration of the adverse effects on the quality of medical services and physician performance.
Main Results:
- Microaggressions and implicit biases adversely affect patient care, leading to symptom dismissal and inferior treatment.
- Physicians experiencing microaggressions and biases may suffer mental distress and functional impairment.
- Cumulative exposure leads to internalized damage for both patients and physicians.
Conclusions:
- Awareness and recognition of microaggressions and implicit biases are essential first steps.
- Cultivating cultural awareness and sensitivity among healthcare workers is vital for improving patient outcomes.
- Addressing these issues is critical for creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare culture.
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