Othering

Othering describes the process whereby one group portrays another as ‘different’ and ‘foreign’ in order to distinguish itself from that group. This usually occurs in the context of a power imbalance: those described as ‘different’ often have little means of defending themselves against this, as they are socially disadvantaged. In this process, certain characteristics or traits – such as origin, religion, disability or sexual orientation – are particularly emphasised and portrayed as deviations from the social norm. Whether these traits are viewed positively or negatively is not a decisive factor; in any case, they serve to distinguish the group and often also to devalue the other group. This reinforces one’s own self-image and confirms it as ‘normal’. Othering can also mean that entire groups are held responsible for the behaviour of individuals. In German, the term is sometimes translated as ‘Fremdmachung’ or ‘VerAnderung’.