Decades of scientific evidence support the existence of implicit biases, their role in how our brains process information, and how they can impact our thoughts and behavior.  However, questions and confusion remain. In this six-part series, Dr. Lorie Fridell, CEO of Fair & Impartial Policing, tackles some of the common misperceptions about implicit biases, translating some of the complex science into plain language. She identifies the facts and fictions surrounding implicit biases and the importance of implicit-bias-awareness training.

Fiction: Implicit-bias training produces a “backlash” in trainees. When researchers direct subjects to repress their biases, racist attitudes and behavior increases. However, implicit-bias training does NOT direct individuals to repress their biases. In fact, implicit-bias training teaches individuals to recognize their implicit biases and, by recognizing their biases, individuals can manage them.

 

Watch the full video here: