Structural Violence

Institutional structures and policies that directly or indirectly cause psychological, emotional, economic, spiritual, physical or sexual harm to particular individuals or specific groups of people. Perpetuates inequality, injustice, marginalization, exploitation and oppression of certain individuals or groups through such means as denial of opportunities, exclusionary tactics, preferential advancement of individuals or groups granted majority status, disenfranchisement, isolation and separation from family, resources or other supports. Typically effects those assigned minority status in a given society based upon factors including race, ethnicity, citizenship, social class, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and disability. Often serves as an enabling backdrop and institutional justification for the perpetration of systemic trauma.