The Microaggressions Triangle Model: A Humanistic Approach to Navigating Microaggressions in Health Professions Schools

Acad Med. 2020 Dec;95(12S Addressing Harmful Bias and Eliminating Discrimination in Health Professions Learning Environments):S28-S32. doi: 10.1097/ACM.0000000000003692.

Abstract

Microaggressions are types of interactions that create a cognitive load that can impede a health professions student's ability to perform well in their program. This paper discusses the Microaggressions Triangle Model, which is a framework for understanding microaggressions from a human interaction standpoint. At each point in the model, the authors provide approaches designed to help recipients, sources, and bystanders construct responses that may allow for rebuilding. From a restorative justice standpoint, rebuilding gives all people involved the opportunity to restore their reputations and repair relationships. Rebuilding is about individuals and communities acknowledging and learning from the interaction as a way to promote a climate of inclusion in their organization.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aggression / psychology*
  • Health Personnel / education*
  • Health Personnel / psychology
  • Humanism*
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations