Recently, I facilitated a conversation with folks from the NH Fair Funding Project on bias. The questions the group wanted to explore were typical of what I hear when I facilitate discussions with groups. So, I thought it would be useful to share some thoughts on their questions.
First, let me say that becoming aware of and reducing bias is a continuous process that involves both self-reflection and practical strategies. And now for their questions.
How Are Biases Manifested?
Biases manifest in various ways, often unconsciously:
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Stereotyping: Generalizing traits or behaviors to entire groups, often based on limited information.
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Prejudice: Holding preconceived opinions or attitudes about individuals based on group membership.
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Discrimination: Acting on biases by treating people unequally or unfairly.
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Decision-Making: Letting biases influence hiring, promotions, or evaluations, especially under time pressure or multitasking.
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Social Interactions: Favoring certain people, interrupting others, or making assumptions about capabilities or intentions.
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Memory and Perception: Remembering positive or negative information more readily depending on the bias (e.g., positivity bias).
Are There Positive Biases?
Bias is commonly viewed as negative, but there are positive biases as well. For example, the positivity bias (or Pollyanna Principle) describes our tendency to focus on positive information, remember pleasant events, and overestimate our own strengths. While positive biases can enhance well-being and optimism, they can also distort reality or lead to overconfidence.
Why Is “Bias” a Negative Term?
The word “bias” often carries a negative connotation because it is associated with unfairness, prejudice, and discrimination—favoring or disfavoring individuals or groups without objective justification. While bias simply means a preference or inclination, society tends to focus on its harmful effects, such as perpetuating stereotypes and inequality. The negative perception arises from the consequences of biased actions rather than the concept itself.
When is it appropriate to work through a bias alone vs. with the object of that bias
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Alone: If your bias is rooted in personal beliefs or stereotypes and hasn’t directly affected someone, it’s often appropriate to start by educating yourself, reflecting, and seeking resources independently. This avoids placing an undue emotional burden on others.
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With the Object of Bias: When your bias has impacted someone or a relationship, or if you
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want to better understand the lived experience of those affected, it can be valuable to engage in open, respectful dialogue. Collaboration can foster empathy and accountability, but should be approached sensitively to avoid causing harm or expecting others to educate you without consent.
Can you get rid of bias or be more mindful of bias?
Here are effective ways to be more mindful of bias:
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Acknowledge Your Biases: Recognize that everyone has biases, both conscious and unconscious. Tools like the Implicit Association Test (IAT) can help you identify hidden biases1.
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Pause and Reflect: Avoid making snap judgments. Take time to question your first impressions, assumptions, and gut reactions.
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Practice Empathy and Perspective-Taking: Actively consider situations from another person’s viewpoint to challenge your own assumptions.
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Seek Feedback: Ask others for input on your decisions and behaviors to gain an external perspective and catch biases you may have missed.
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Increase Exposure: Engage with people from diverse backgrounds and seek out counter-examples that challenge stereotypes.
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Monitor Behavior: Regularly review your actions and decisions for patterns that may indicate bias.
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Speak Up and Apologize: If you notice bias in yourself or others, address it tactfully and be willing to apologize and learn from mistakes.
Biases are a natural part of human cognition, but being mindful and proactive can help minimize their negative impact and promote fairness and inclusion.
As always, if you or your organization wants to get better at navigating bias, feel free to contact me. I love gathering stories about how people have navigated bias.
Good Luck!