Microaggressions and Microaffirmations: LGBTI+’s Experiences, Perceptions, and Expectations of Bystanders’ Reactions

Microaggressions are subtle and indiscernible discriminatory remarks or actions that may marginalise the LGBTI+ community and is directed toward their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. They contribute to the dissemination of stereotypes and have cumulative effects adverse effects on sexual minorities. Microaffirmations on the other hand are small acts or expressions of understanding, care, and support, that counteract the negative impact of microaggressions. Bystanders can either contribute to the perpetration or the interruption of microaggressions and offer microaffirmations to the target. There is a lack of research into such experiences in the northern part of Cyprus. The current study sought to explore microaggression and microaffirmation experiences of LGBTI+s residing in Northern Cyprus, including their reactions and the emotional outcomes, and their expectations from bystanders in response to microaggressions. Within the framework of a qualitative design, semi structured interviews were carried out, transcribed, then analysed using a thematic content analysis while employing a deductive and inductive approach to confirm pre-existing themes and to discover potential new ones. The analysis revealed eight microaggression themes and seven microaffirmation themes apparent in the experiences of LGBTI+s. The experiences reported were similar to those experienced by LGBTI+s in other contexts. Whereas microaggressions were associated with negative emotional outcomes, microaffirmations were linked to positive emotional outcomes. Moreover, there was an expectation for bystanders to respond to microaggressions in several ways including the prompt warning and education of aggressors. Implications are made for bystander interventions to combat discrimination and to establish safe spaces in social, institutional, and interpersonal settings.