What is the definition of "implicit bias"?

The definition of "implicit bias" refers to the unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that influence our understanding, actions, and decisions. This concept highlights how people's judgments and behaviors can be shaped by societal influences and personal experiences, often without their awareness. Implicit biases can lead individuals to form opinions about others based on race, gender, age, or other characteristics, which can affect interactions in various contexts, including law enforcement, education, and everyday communication.

This understanding is crucial in fields like policing, where recognizing that biases might exist at a subconscious level can lead to more equitable and fair practices. It emphasizes the importance of ongoing training and self-awareness among professionals to mitigate the effects of these biases in their actions and decisions, ultimately improving community relations and service.

In contrast, other options focus on conscious beliefs, deliberate prejudice, or self-awareness of biases, which do not accurately capture the implicit nature of implicit bias itself. The correct definition reflects the hidden feelings and assumptions that drive behavior without individuals being fully aware of them.