Developing a Comprehensive Conceptual Model of Hierarchical Microaggressions in Higher Education Settings

• In Event: 31.048 - Critical Perspectives of Organizational Governance, Administration, and Leadership

Abstract

Young, Anderson, and Stewart (2015) coined term “hierarchical microaggression” which refers to microaggression toward defenseless or less powerful stakeholders who typically hold inferior or lower-ranked positions in colleges or universities. While several studies reflect the phenomenon of hierarchical microaggressions in higher education, less is understood about theoretical constructs that shape the phenomenon. In response, we developed a comprehensive conceptual model of hierarchical microaggressions in higher education settings using a systematic review of the literature pertaining to various forms of microaggressions in higher education settings. The model provides the structural, political, human resource, and symbolic factors shaping hierarchical microaggressions in conjunction with stakeholders’ demographic characteristics. Further, in the model, several negative outcomes from hierarchical microaggressions are illustrated.

Authors

• Ahlam Lee, Xavier University

• Tammy R Zilliox, Xavier University