Internalized oppression

Internalized oppression is the manner in sociology and psychology in which an oppressed group comes to use against itself the methods of the oppressor.

For example, sometimes members of marginalized groups hold an oppressive view toward their own populations, or they start to believe in negative stereotypes of themselves.

Internalized oppression also exists among some immigrants and their descendants. If the foreigner's ethnic origin, native language or culture are devalued vis-a-vis those of the host community, the person may feel a sense of inferiority. This self-hatred in turn manifests itself through an exaggerated conformity with the dominant norms, which the individual perceives as superior to his own. As such, in response to ridicule, an immigrant may attempt to compensate via assimilation and acculturation.^[1]

Internalized homophobia and internalized sexism are also categories of internalized oppression.^[2]

See also

• Internalized racism
• Learned helplessness
• Self-hatred

Notes