Eliminate, Not Exclude: A More Effective Solution

Have you ever felt excluded from a group or a conversation? It is a terrible feeling, one that can cause negative impacts on our emotional and mental wellbeing. And yet, exclusion is a common phenomenon that can occur in many social settings, including schools, workplaces, and even families. While we may think exclusion is a harmless way to deal with differences, the truth is, it can lead to serious consequences for both the excluded and the excluder. In this article, we will explore why exclusion should be eliminated, not simply tolerated.

The Problem with Exclusion

Exclusion can take many forms, from outright rejection to subtle acts of ignoring or ignoring of our peers. Whatever its form, exclusion can have detrimental effects on our social, emotional, and psychological wellbeing. For instance, numerous studies have found that being excluded activates the same pain-sensing regions of the brain as physical pain. This suggests that exclusion can be just as harmful as physical violence or abuse. Moreover, exclusion can lead to a range of negative outcomes, such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and antisocial behavior.

The Myth of Inclusion vs. Exclusion

One common misconception about exclusion is that the opposite of exclusion is inclusion. However, this is not entirely true. While inclusion is certainly a more desirable outcome than exclusion, it is not always the answer to the problem. In fact, some forms of inclusion can be just as harmful as exclusion. For example, when we force people to fit into a certain mold or conform to certain norms, we are not promoting true inclusion, but rather, we are excluding those who do not fit into our idea of what is normal or acceptable. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of what we mean when we say \"inclusion\" and not simply use it as a buzzword.

The Need for Elimination

If exclusion is not the answer and inclusion is not the whole solution, what can we do to promote a more inclusive and respectful social environment? The answer lies in elimination. Instead of tolerating exclusion or promoting superficial inclusion, we need to eliminate the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that lead to exclusion in the first place. This requires a concerted effort from everyone involved, from individuals to institutions. We need to challenge the harmful stereotypes and biases that underlie exclusion, we need to listen and value diverse perspectives, and we need to create spaces where individuals can truly be themselves without fear of judgment or exclusion. Only then can we create a social environment that is truly inclusive and equitable.

In conclusion, exclusion is a serious problem that can have negative impacts on our social and emotional wellbeing. While inclusion is a more desirable outcome than exclusion, it is not always enough to address the problem. To promote a truly inclusive and respectful environment, we need to eliminate the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that lead to exclusion in the first place. This requires a concerted effort from everyone involved, but it is a worthwhile and necessary endeavor. Let us work together to eliminate, not exclude.