Breaking Down Barriers: How to Overcome Unconscious Bias

Unconscious Bias, also known as Implicit Bias, are occasions where the individual is not aware of their biases.  Unlike Explicit Bias, where they are totally aware of their actions, thoughts, and behaviors.

Unconscious Bias is…

·         Generally expressed through stereotypes and discrimination

·         Usually focused on gender, age, race, and disability

·         A learned behavior of assumptions, beliefs and attitudes expressed in the home.  Authority Bias occurs where adults/authority figures are always right and may carry over into adulthood, resulting in Unconscious Bias behaviors that may not truly represent our feelings.

·         Automatic, a mental shortcut we usually aren’t aware we’re using. An example is driving a car. Our unconscious mind takes us home when this is not the desired destination.

What causes Unconscious Bias?

·         External factors contributing to overstimulation from culture, media, religion, etc.  Those outside influences we struggle with to maintain control over our lives.

·         The stereotypes we hold affect our ability to understand and make decisions. Here the Anchor Bias is powerful, where we use the first piece of information we’re exposed to and form opinions.

·         Patterns (i.e. behaviors) we use to simplify our lives.

·         Shortcuts we’ve adopted from social and cultural influences.

The key to overcoming Unconscious Bias is honest communication with ourselves and with others.

·         Choose to engage, interact, and set goals for yourself based on what you’re experiencing.

·         Avoid assumptions.  Instead, practice mindfulness, being aware of your feelings in the moment.

·         Be present. Instead of relying on past experiences, focus your attention and efforts on the events occurring NOW.

·         Look for people to defy the stereotypes you have and add new information.

·         Be open/receptive to meeting new people as you engage in your chosen activities.  Ongoing communication is more effective than a 1-time effort that’s not sincere and less likely to have a positive outcome.

·         Names- a person’s name is part of their identity. Don’t be disrespectful and ask if you need assistance with pronunciation. Ask the meaning/source of their name. Don’t rely on familiar or common names as substitutes. I have a friend whose name is Friel.  She chooses to accept being called Fara as it is easier for people to remember.

·         Age- educate yourself.  While older people may be challenged with technology, they are around younger people who lack social and communication skills.

·         Abilities- Walk a mile in their shoes.  Regardless of the disability, try to understand by disabling yourself to replicate their experience.  Remember, your 10 min. of inconvenience is their 24/7 life. Can you handle what they must do to be accepted, every day? Show interest and ask questions.

·         Adjust your perspective to be more empathetic.

·         View the person as an individual, noting accomplishments.

·         Self-assessment...

Ø  Identify life experiences or learned behaviors that may have contributed to your biases.

Ø  How is that person like me?

The goal is to free yourself from Unconscious Bias behavior. While this is a lofty goal, it’s one worthy of the attention to be successful. Being honest and willing to look objectively at your behavior will enhance your life, personally and professionally.