Abstract

This study explored microaggressions that underrepresented students in Communication Sciences and Disorders experience. Phase I included a survey that was sent out to 276 undergraduate and graduate students at one university with 14 questions. Students were asked to identify with demographic variables, rate their sense of belonging, and discuss microaggressions they had experienced. Phase II comprised of individual interviews with six participants that further explored their experience as an underrepresented student in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Interviews were transcribed and coded using a content analysis. Across the two phases, quantitative, mixed-method, and content analyses were completed. Interviews were transcribed and a qualitative analysis included cross tabulating demographic variables with the number and basis of microaggression. The frequency, type, and basis of microaggressions were identified through the mixed-methods analysis. The content analysis resulted in the emergence of two major themes: belonging and feedback. Within the first theme of belonging, there were three codes: facilitators, obstructors, and changes in belonging. In the second theme, feedback, there were two codes: macrointerventions and microinterventions. Findings reveal students from underrepresented groups experience a variety of types and bases of microaggressions at a higher frequency than their peers. Other findings include students with hidden identities report experiencing higher rates of microinvalidations, the need for multiple interventions, and the benefit of connection for underrepresented students. Future research should study additional universities and demographic variables.

Degree

MS

College and Department

David O. McKay School of Education; Communication Disorders

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2023-06-06

Document Type

Thesis

Handle

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/etd12797

Keywords

Microaggressions, diversity, cultural responsiveness, communication disorders

Language

english

Included in

Communication Commons

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