Code-switching in the Workplace: The Mental Effects on Black People
Ever had a friend who has a different voice, style, or even name tailored explicitly for work? They are a far cry from the person you know in the comfort of their homes. Sheesh, you even might be that friend.
For people of color, there are some spaces that are more comfortable and easier to exist in than others.
This seemingly double lifestyle is known as code-switching. It is a survival skill that many people of color have mastered in the workplace.
The origin of code-switching
Initially, code-switching was used to describe multilingual people alternating between two or more languages. Researchers aimed the studies at discovering the psychological effects of transitioning between multiple languages in a single conversation. Code-switching definition has changed over the years. The term has evolved to refer to marginalized or underrepresented groups, especially BIPOCs, and how we adapt our behavior, dressing, language, and actions to fit the dominant culture, also known as the culture of power. Code-switching involves changing speech, intonations, appearance, or mannerisms to be perceived in a specific setting as an equal. One of such settings is the workplace or a professional environment.
Code-switching in the workplace
Since some level of professionalism has to be maintained in a work setting, it is not far-fetched that people choose to dress, speak or behave differently with their colleagues than they do with family and close friends. However, code-switching psychology is a more complex and deeply-rooted phenomenon than this. It exists in the most subtle things and actions.
To clarify, examples of code-switching in the workplace are not clear-cut. Still, generally, it could include using different expressions or greeting patterns with your colleagues than you would authentically use at home. Many people do not realize that they are code-switching, especially if they are the only person of color in their workplace. To such people, code-switching comes naturally in an attempt to be "accepted" by a community of people with different ideas and communication styles. Code-switching becomes a means of survival and a way to not feel left out.
Many PoC consciously or subconsciously believe that their mannerisms, speech, and style are not beneficial in the professional setting. This isn’t because we think it is bad or wrong, but because of the societal structure we did not create. Due to the tremendous social pressure members of marginalized groups are under, they are forced to change to fit in with the dominant culture. Code-switching becomes necessary to get our feet through the gigantic doors. The belief that opportunities are more accessible once we successfully integrate into the dominant group's culture is not inconceivable.
What are examples of code-switching in the workplace?
Black people swap their natural hair for “corporate” or “clean” white-oriented hairstyles.
Switching out native accents for Standard English to appear more intelligent and not seem ghetto.
Black women adapt their speech to fit in a predominately male office and not be perceived as the "angry black woman."
Going by an English name instead of a native name at work to make it easier to deal with white clientele.
The dominant culture imposes certain values and standards of behavior: actions that are considered good, the norm, or the road to success. Individuals whose identities are not represented in this culture have to struggle to unlearn theirs to conform to the culture of power.
How code-switching affects mental health
The psychological effects of code-switching are enormous. It involves playing different parts and sometimes becoming entirely another person. Code-switching can become tiring and lead to feelings of detachment from one's heritage.
Code-switching in the workplace can be subconscious or completely intentional. While some use it as a survival tactic or coping mechanism, some ease into code-switching behaviors without realizing it. Whichever way it is, changing your authentic mannerisms to fit different situations can take a toll on a person. It could result in emotional exhaustion, leading to severe psychological implications.
In the long run, code-switching can impede work performance. As you constantly strive to avoid stereotypes, you work twice as much and burn yourself out. Moreover, you cannot attain your true potential in your career when you are not being your authentic self. You would always feel a low sense of accomplishment and dissatisfaction with your performance even when you’re at your best. Code-switching also creates a ripple effect on other areas of your life. Friends can sometimes tease you for "talking or acting white," which could increase irritability in your personal life and relationships. In no time, you can't recognize the person staring back at you in the mirror.
Dealing with the effects of code-switching
If embracing code-switching at your place of work is taking a toll on your mental health, these are practical ways you can deal with it.
Be Authentic.
Being yourself in a work setting predominantly governed by white culture can be tricky. As human beings, we don’t always want to be the different one in their place of work. Every place of work has its culture, and since the socially accepted form of professionalism is often rooted in the dominant culture, learning to be your true self can make you stick out like a sore thumb.
Find a job that encourages you to be yourself.
If the culture at your place of work encourages code-switching, strive for another environment that does not only have anti-discriminatory policies but celebrates diversity. For a few of my clients applying to new jobs, make this a part of your interview process. Interviews should not only be employers looking for what you can bring to the company, but also what they can give to you. Companies should appreciate the unique yet professional perspective you bring to the table. You thrive where you are allowed to share your cultural experience and your valuable perspective without fear of stereotypes or microaggressions.
Seek therapy if you feel too overwhelmed.
If the negative effects of code-switching become too much to deal with, seek the help of a professional.
Bottom line
We all code-switch in one social context or another, whether it's an unintentional shift from an informal conversation to a formal one or varied mannerism. However, code-switching among BIPOCs runs deeper and could have serious mental effects. When your workplace culture gets a little too exerting on your mental health, give yourself permission to take a break and load up on the self-TLC.
To learn more about ways to take care of your mental health, contact Camille at camille@diversifiedtherapyla.com
