Abstract
The study examines the impact of racial microaggressions on cortisol levels,
highlighting inconsistent findings across various research methodologies.
Microaggressions--subtle discriminatory actions--are linked to stress and
can raise cortisol levels, a hormone released in response to stress. Some
studies suggest that frequent microaggressions blunt cortisol response,
making it less available for future stressors, while others reported increased
cortisol levels. The divergence in results may be due to differences in
research designs, such as cross-sectional, interpersonal research, or
nomothetic, versus longitudinal, intrapersonal research, or idiographic
approaches. Combined, the results of each type of research proves chronic
and acute impact of microaggressions. The research underscores the
complexity of generalizing findings due to individual and ethnic variability
in stress responses. Additionally, methods of cortisol measurement, such as
salivary and hair cortisol, may account for discrepancies. The findings
emphasize the need for standardized, consistent methodologies to
accurately capture the effects of microaggressions on stress physiology and
call for increased awareness and detection of microaggressions to mitigate
their harmful impacts.
Recommended Citation
Perez-Lopez, Edgar
()
"Words Can Hurt: A Review of Racial Microaggressions and their Effects on Cortisol Level,"
McNair Research Journal SJSU: Vol. 22
, Article 6.
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/mcnair/vol22/iss1/6