ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Symbolic violence

Symbolic violence is a way of hurting someone without hurting them physically. It is a form of power and control that uses words, gestures and symbols to make people feel bad, scared, or less important. It can be done in a very subtle way, like making jokes at someone's expense or other people ignoring a person in a group, making them feel invisible. It can also be more obvious, like using someone's beliefs or identity against them, or using intimidating body language. Symbolic violence is a way of making someone feel powerless and can have long-lasting effects.