Marginalization, also called social marginalization, occurs when a person or groups of people are less able to do things or access basic resources and opportunities that are available to others in society. It is a process of social exclusion in which individuals or groups are relegated to the fringes of a society, being denied economic, political, and social opportunities. Marginalization can occur for various reasons, including race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental ability, and economic status.
Examples of marginalization include economic marginalization, where people do not have the same chances as others to contribute to and benefit from the economy, and political marginalization, where some groups of people are not able to participate democratically in the decision-making process. Marginalization can also occur at the individual level, such as the exclusion of individuals with disabilities from the labor force or the marginalization of single mothers.
Marginalization can have significant negative effects on individuals and communities, including reduced access to resources, lower quality of life, and increased vulnerability to discrimination and violence. To combat marginalization, it is important to promote inclusivity and diversity, challenge biases and stereotypes, and work towards creating a more equitable society.
