# The Hidden Damage of Continuous Exclusion: A Closer Look
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Chapter 1: Understanding Continuous Exclusion
The long-term consequences of ongoing micro-exclusions can be profoundly damaging.
Consider a young boy who aspired to become an astronaut. As he matured, reality set in, and he realized that this dream might never materialize. You might notice the peculiar use of 'x' in my narrative, which serves a purpose. How did the random letters affect your reading experience? Those minor distractions, much like micro-exclusions, can be surprisingly irritating.
In my observation, a series of small annoyances can often be more bothersome than a singular significant issue. When faced with a major problem, one typically takes action to resolve it. For instance, if a storm severely damages your roof, you know it requires immediate repair. However, if only a few tiles are slightly damaged, you might resort to placing a bucket under the leak, leading to the incessant sound of dripping water during rainstorms. Over time, this minor annoyance can drive you to frustration, yet it may take considerable time before you address the issue.
Much like this dripping, many individuals on the autism spectrum—and others who diverge from the norm—experience ongoing micro-exclusions that accumulate over time. Imagine if that leak were left unattended, resulting in severe structural damage to your home. The same goes for autistic individuals navigating a predominantly neurotypical environment.
These individuals often endure a relentless barrage of subtle exclusions, all masked by well-meaning rhetoric about inclusivity. While many strive to project an image of inclusiveness, they often hesitate to make the necessary changes to translate their words into action. This might manifest as being invited to meetings that are excessively loud or failing to adapt environments to accommodate sensory sensitivities. It could also involve being reprimanded for advocating for fairness and justice, or it could take various other forms.
The cumulative effect of these repeated minor exclusions can be exhausting. No one has the stamina to advocate for their right to exist authentically every single day, yet that is the reality for many. The urge to surrender to this relentless pressure can be overwhelming, but often, that choice isn't available.
When an autistic friend, family member, or colleague voices a concern, it's crucial to listen. They may lack the energy to repeatedly address the same issues, and if these concerns go unacknowledged, they will continue to wear down the individual day by day, year after year.
If I had embedded those 'x's throughout this piece, I doubt many would have continued reading. This illustrates the persistent struggle many face in their daily lives.
The Psychological Effects of Feeling Excluded - YouTube
This video explores how feelings of exclusion can lead to significant psychological distress, emphasizing the importance of understanding social dynamics.
Section 1.1: The Impact of Micro-Exclusions
The effects of micro-exclusions can often be subtle yet insidious, gradually eroding an individual’s mental well-being.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Accumulation of Small Exclusions
Section 1.2: The Role of Environment
The environments we inhabit play a crucial role in shaping our experiences and feelings of belonging.