This is What Implicit Bias Looks Like

We know from emerging science and neural research that unconscious patterns develop in our brains that organize information and perceptions. These patterns affect our attitudes and actions even though we aren’t aware of them. And while these patterns are implicit, they create real-world implications. Implicit bias is a type of psych-social processing of internalized messages that create pockets of bias for and against people, and things. Author Beverly Tatum describes implicit bias as smog. It’s trapped in us, and we aren’t aware of the damage it’s causing internally.

Implicit bias is not intentional, but it can still affect how we treat others. It can impact how we judge others based on factors such as race, ability, gender, culture, language, etc. 

I believe that most of the racial prejudice and bias Americans harbor today is subtle and manifests itself in stealthier ways than it did in the past. It shows up in how employers view potential hires, how salespeople choose to assist people at high-end stores, or how teachers dole out punishments to misbehaving students. Often subconscious, these race-based evaluations of character or intelligence have wide-ranging effects. These effects can be harmful in every situation, but they become deadly when racial bias affects the work of law enforcement. 

Extensive research on the subject shows that just about everyone carries this subconscious prejudice, known as implicit bias, no matter how well-meaning they might be. In the criminal justice system, this implicit bias may contribute to the many racial disparities in law enforcement. When it comes to police officers, implicit bias is a widespread concern, precisely because of how devastating its effects can be.  

In 2014 an American Psychological Association (APA) Study revealed the following:

• Black boys are viewed as older, and less innocent than white boys.
• Black boys as young as 10 were mistaken as older, perceived as guilty, and faced more adult treatment by law enforcement than same-aged white boys.
• The average age overestimation for Black boys exceeded 4½ years. Often Black boys as young as 13 were perceived as Black men.
• Black boys were more often assumed to be responsible for their actions than white boys who benefited from assumptions of a child-like action.

If you want to see racial bias play out in real-time just watch this video.  After watching the video consider how implicit bias is showing up in your organization.

To truly have an organization that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive you must address implicit bias.  At Cascade, we offer Implicit Bias training. This session looks deeply at the unconscious and hidden bias that stems from the associations that people unknowingly hold about themselves and others based on perceptions of race and skin color. Participants in this session will also learn about the unconscious stereotypes and assumptions that often are contrary to espoused beliefs about racial equity and justice that people express. You will also learn ways to mitigate the negative impact and address implicit racial bias both personally and professionally.