LibraryScenariosHow to respond when compliments feel like microaggressions
Scenario

How to respond when compliments feel like microaggressions

My boss complimented my 'articulate' presentation and I smiled and said thank you but I felt sick to my stomach for hours afterward.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Praise that highlights your exception to stereotypes forces you to choose between gratitude and dignity.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Code-switching and double consciousness?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.