NT 3.3 Text Alternative

The following are the six elements of micromessages and examples.

  1. Verbal: What is said
    Example: Consistently using generic “he” or “man” to represent both men and women.
  2. Para-verbal: How it is said
    Example: Using a more enthusiastic tone of voice in response to boys.
  3. Non-verbal: Body language
    Example: Avoiding eye contact with female or male students or only looking at male or female students.
  4. Contextual: Who or what else is present (culture, artifacts, etc.)
    Example: Only using males as examples of scientists.
  5. Omission: What is not said or not done
    Example: Failing to offer female students opportunities to be team leaders.
  6. Praise and criticism: Feedback messages
    Example: Disciplining boys more than girls for similar behavior.

Back to page 3.3