Module 7 Final Paper

.docx

School

Southern New Hampshire University *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

112

Subject

Sociology

Date

Apr 3, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by AdmiralInternetFox28

Final Paper Kenneth Fulkroad Southern New Hampshire University SOC-112: Introduction to Sociology Kezia Davis October 15, 2023

Social Issue The social issue I have chosen to explore is racially motivated microaggressions. Microaggressions are “statements, actions, or incidents regarded as indirect, subtle, or unintentional acts of discrimination” (Sue et al., 2007). Cultural Beliefs and Biases When certain racial and ethnic groups are superior to others based on their perceived characteristics, abilities, or cultural norms this creates a belief known as “racial hierarchy.” This belief can lead to biases and prejudices that manifest in various forms of racial microaggressions. One specific example of this type of bias associated with this belief is the idea of "colorblindness." Some individuals may believe that they are treating everyone equally by not acknowledging or discussing race. However, this colorblind approach can dismiss the experiences and challenges faced by marginalized racial and ethnic groups. It can also contribute to the perpetuation of stereotypes or the denial of systemic racism ( Baskin, Amy. 2023). Another example of a cultural belief and bias related to racial microaggressions is the belief in racial stereotypes. This belief involves attributing certain characteristics, behaviors, or abilities to individuals based on their racial or ethnic background. Racial stereotypes can be deeply ingrained in society and can lead to biased judgments and actions, including the perpetuation of racial microaggressions. For instance, the stereotype of Asian Americans as being highly academic and intelligent can lead to microaggressions such as assuming that all Asian Americans are good at math or science, dismissing their accomplishments as solely due to their race, or placing unrealistic expectations on them. This stereotype not only oversimplifies the complexity

of individual experiences and abilities but also creates pressure and unfair expectations on Asian Americans. Social Roles One social role that individuals affected by racial microaggressions may play is that of an advocate or activist for racial justice and equality. These individuals often take it upon themselves to speak out against racial microaggressions, raise awareness about the impact of systemic racism, and work towards creating change. The relationship between this social role and the issue of racial microaggressions is typically positive. Advocates and activists play a crucial role in bringing attention to the issue, challenging societal norms and biases, and pushing for greater equity and inclusivity. They provide a voice for those who have experienced racial microaggressions and work towards creating a more just and equal society. Research has shown that those who experience discrimination often have a greater chance of having some form of a mood disorder and elevated symptoms of depression (Mouzon, et al., 2017). Through their advocacy efforts, individuals in this role aim to educate others about the harmful effects of racial microaggressions, promote empathy and understanding, and strive for systemic change. Their actions and initiatives can lead to increased awareness, policy changes, and improvements in the treatment of marginalized racial and ethnic groups. Activists who advocate racial justice help us to understand the systemic nature of microaggressions and their effects on marginalized communities ( Baskin, Amy. 2023). Firstly, activists highlight that microaggressions are not isolated incidents but embedded within larger systems of power and privilege (Moore p.1949). They emphasize the structural and institutional dimensions of racial inequality and how microaggressions perpetuate and reinforce these systems. By recognizing microaggressions as manifestations of deeper social inequalities, it

becomes clear that addressing them requires systemic change and dismantling of oppressive structures. Additionally, activists provide voices and perspectives that challenge societal norms and push for broader awareness and action against microaggressions (Lariat, B. 2018). They advocate for education, policy changes, and structural reforms to address systemic issues that perpetuate discrimination. Recognizing the role of activists helps us understand the collective effort required to address microaggressions as a social issue and highlights the need for allyship and solidarity in the fight against racial injustice (Lariat, B. 2018). Parents involved in the child welfare system play a crucial social role in addressing the social issue of microaggressions and racism within that system. Parents may face racial bias and discrimination within the system, as studies have shown that families from marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds are disproportionately represented in child welfare cases. A study in 2019 showed that black children represented 23% of the entire population of youth within the foster care system (Washington. p 1526). This strain can further perpetuate racial inequalities. Furthermore, beyond the marginalization and discrimination that occurs and is felt by non-white families within the child welfare system, research psychologists have shown that families subjected to racism within CPS, have significantly higher odds for serious psychological distress (SPD) (Chae et al. p 501). Research has shown that racial bias and systemic racism can influence decision-making processes, leading to unequal treatment and negative outcomes for families of color. This strain in the relationship stems from the unjust and discriminatory practices that parents may encounter within the child welfare system (Harris. p 30).

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

Recommended textbooks for you

Social Psychology (10th Edition)

Sociology

ISBN:9780134641287

Author:Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers

Publisher:Pearson College Div

Introduction to Sociology (Eleventh Edition)

Sociology

ISBN:9780393639407

Author:Deborah Carr, Anthony Giddens, Mitchell Duneier, Richard P. Appelbaum

Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company

The Basics of Social Research (MindTap Course Lis...

Sociology

ISBN:9781305503076

Author:Earl R. Babbie

Publisher:Cengage Learning

Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Scien...

Sociology

ISBN:9780134477596

Author:Saferstein, Richard

Publisher:PEARSON

Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (13th Edition)

Sociology

ISBN:9780134205571

Author:James M. Henslin

Publisher:PEARSON

Society: The Basics (14th Edition)

Sociology

ISBN:9780134206325

Author:John J. Macionis

Publisher:PEARSON

SEE MORE TEXTBOOKS

Recommended textbooks for you

Social Psychology (10th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:9780134641287
Author:Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher:Pearson College Div
Introduction to Sociology (Eleventh Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:9780393639407
Author:Deborah Carr, Anthony Giddens, Mitchell Duneier, Richard P. Appelbaum
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company
The Basics of Social Research (MindTap Course Lis...
Sociology
ISBN:9781305503076
Author:Earl R. Babbie
Publisher:Cengage Learning
Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Scien...
Sociology
ISBN:9780134477596
Author:Saferstein, Richard
Publisher:PEARSON
Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (13th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:9780134205571
Author:James M. Henslin
Publisher:PEARSON
Society: The Basics (14th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:9780134206325
Author:John J. Macionis
Publisher:PEARSON