The psychological harm is generally directed towards the devaluing individuals who are targeted. Their opinions are not important. They need not be listened to. You don't have the credentials. You don't have the intellectual skills, the economic status, the racial qualities, physical equipment or the sexual chromosomes to enter into the debate.
People are funny in the ways they have responded to oppressive atmospheres and attitudes.
They begin to believe it is true. The external message that you are not worth much is internalized as a form of self measure. I must be worthless bad, incomplete, less human. Silence is my best defense.until frustrations are eventually acted out on the streets of Detroit - and usually against those who are in the same boat. This silencing has produced terrible social losses.