Page 111 - Microaggressions in Everyday Live Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation

The Microaggression Process Model 85

in the prejudices and biases of the society. Accurate perception means
the ability to read between the lines, to see beyond the obvious, and to
become aware of inconsistencies between verbal and nonverbal behav-
iors of oppressors. For people of color, for example, it has meant vigi-
lance in discerning the motives, attitudes, and the unintentional biased
contradictions of White people. In many cases, Whites sense this ability
on the part of people of color and become uncomfortable in their pres-
ence because they fear having their biases and prejudices unmasked.
Heightened perception and wisdom are functions of optimal human
functioning among oppressed groups who rely heavily on their intuitive
and perceptual wisdom. It protects them from having their experiential
realities invalidated.
2. Nonverbal and contextualized accuracy—There is a saying among
African Americans that goes like this: “To truly understand White peo-
ple, don’t listen to what they say, but how they say it.” This saying refers
to recognition that nonverbal behaviors are more accurate barometers
of biased attitudes and actions. It has been suggested that women are
better at reading nonverbal behaviors than men and that people of
color are also better at reading nonverbal communication than Whites.
Communication theory reveals that only 30–40% of communication
occurs verbally, while the remainder depends on nonverbal/contextual
cues; then, nonverbal behaviors are least under conscious control; and
nonverbal messages are more accurate than verbal ones. As healthy
functioning is correlated with the ability to accurately read nonverbal
communication and discern “the truth,” this suggests that oppressed
groups may possess strengths unmatched by oppressors.
3. Bicultural fl exibility—Because people of color, women, and LGBTs are
always exposed to the cultural values, beliefs, and standards of the dom-
inant society, they must deal with pressures to conform to the larger
standards of those in power. In dealing with forced compliance and pres-
sures to assimilate and acculturate, marginalized groups have developed a
bicultural flexibility that allows them to maintain their own sense of integ-

rity. They may be said to be multicultural rather than monocultural. One of
the major advantages of being bicultural or multicultural is the ability to see
multiple worldviews and more readily understand the other’s point of view.
In contrast, those in power are seldom called upon to learn and experience
minority cultures; in essence they are monocultural and disadvantaged.
(Continued)

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