150 likes | 437 Views
Unconscious Bias adapted from Equality Challenge Unit presentation. Clare Peterson Equality & Diversity Manager University of Gloucestershire. Overview. Understanding of the definition, causes and nature of unconscious bias;
E N D
Unconscious Biasadapted from Equality Challenge Unit presentation Clare Peterson Equality & Diversity Manager University of Gloucestershire
Overview Understanding of the definition, causes and nature of unconscious bias; Be aware of how unconscious bias impacts on behaviour and decision-making; Increase awareness of strategies to identify and manage our biases.
What is unconscious biasPsychological Explanation Unconscious bias refers to a bias that we are unaware of, and which happens outside of our control. It is a bias that happens automatically and is triggered by our brain making quick judgments and assessments of people and situations, influenced by our background, cultural environment and personal experiences (ECU: 2013 Unconscious bias in higher education)
Which characteristics might elicit a response? Sex Piercings/tattoos Haircut Religion/belief Social class Education Sexual AccentorientationEthnicity Height/weight Gender identity Attractiveness Age Disability
Definition - Stereotype Is a characteristic that may apply to one or more of a group and which is applied to all members of that group May or may not accurately reflect reality Often based on physical characteristics
Things which exacerbate our implicit biases Affinity bias - In-groups and out-groups Confirmation bias
In-groups and out-groups We have natural tendencies to prefer people who are like us In-groups are people that we feel safer and more comfortable around and who we may treat more favourably Out-groups are people that we feel less safe and comfortable around and who we might treat dismissively or disdainfully
Confirmation bias Being selective when: searching for information interpreting information remembering/recalling information We prefer information which confirms what we know and believe and are more likely to overlook information which challenges or contradicts
Micro behaviours Unconscious bias operates at a very subtle level, below our awareness. Results in almost unnoticeable behaviours e.g. paying a little less attention to what the other person says, addressing them less warmly. Behaviours are small and may not be picked up as discriminatory or even consciously by the recipient. Long term effect can be corrosive of confidence and self-esteem and may lead to defensive or even aggressive behaviour.
Reducing our levels of bias Monitor your own behaviours to ensure you treat all opinions with respect; Change perception and relationship with out-group members; Challenge stereotypes and counter stereotypical information; Use context to explain a situation; Manage micro-behaviours; Be an active bystander.