Implicit Bias Flashcards

Implicit Bias Overview

• Implicit bias operates unconsciously and involuntarily, affecting perceptions and decisions without awareness or intentional control.
• Individuals may suppress explicit biases due to social desirability, but implicit biases are often unknown to the person.

Distinction Between Implicit and Explicit Bias

• Implicit preferences utilize automatic processing, while explicit preferences involve more conscious and deliberate thought.
• The manifestation and impact of biases depend on context and expression, rather than solely on their inherent nature as implicit or explicit.

Types of Implicit Bias

• Implicit biases can be positive or negative and arise from automatic cognitive processes.
• Negative beliefs that individuals actively suppress do not classify as implicit biases.

Impact of Biases

• Both positive and negative biases can lead to constructive or destructive outcomes, influenced by how well they align with reality.
• Positive biases, while seemingly beneficial, can also have unintended negative effects if misaligned with actual truths.

Teacher Implicit Bias Example

• Teachers' implicit biases can affect grading, discipline decisions, and perceptions of students.
• Practices such as anonymizing student submissions can mitigate the impact of biases on assessment.
• It’s important for educators to acknowledge their biases and actively seek to understand their students' diverse backgrounds.

Biases in School Discipline

• Implicit biases among teachers can result in unequal disciplinary practices and perceptions of students deemed 'problematic.'
• These biases particularly affect discipline outcomes for marginalized identities, often resulting in disproportionate punishment for Black students compared to White students, even in similar behavioral situations.

Importance of Addressing Implicit Bias

• Recognizing and addressing implicit bias is crucial for creating equitable educational environments.
• Surveying students about their cultural perspectives can enhance curriculum inclusivity and engagement.

Test your understanding of implicit bias with these flashcards. Explore the nuances between implicit and explicit biases, and learn how they affect cognition and behavior. Ideal for anyone interested in psychology and social awareness.