Rather, it is simply that people’s implicit biases are an unconscious factor that affects their behaviour towards minority groups. Such was the case when I completed the three Implicit Association tests. Although I outwardly pride myself in being a relatively open and accepting person, my Implicit Association tests revealed some surprising biases that went directly against what I stand for. One that was particularly shocking was the fact that I had an implicit bias that I strongly associated only males with careers, despite the fact that I am a proud feminist and desperately want equality of the sexes. This, along with some other surprising test results, left me contemplating exactly how prevalent unconscious biases are. The Implicit Bias test helped me to realize that everyone does indeed have some preconceived notions and prejudices, and that those things don’t necessarily make you a bad person. What marks the good from the bad is simply your willingness to accept your shortcomings and to work past your biases, whatever they may be. For that reason, I do believe that Hidden Bias tests are extremely useful in general, as they open people’s eyes to their own faults, and gives them an opportunity to change their viewpoints and become more accepting and inclusive as a whole. Additionally, I do believe that the Implicit Association Tests are even more important for those in positions of authority, such as teachers, doctors, government personnel, and individuals working within the judicial system. Research has shown that implicit bias has led to differential treatment at hospitals, can affect wages and raises, and can lead to harsher sentencing in court. By allowing officials to take these tests, they are then able to rectify any hidden biases they may have before they are potentially forced into a situation where they make discriminatory judgements. If the Implicit
Rather, it is simply that people’s implicit biases are an unconscious factor that affects their behaviour towards minority groups. Such was the case when I completed the three Implicit Association tests. Although I outwardly pride myself in being a relatively open and accepting person, my Implicit Association tests revealed some surprising biases that went directly against what I stand for. One that was particularly shocking was the fact that I had an implicit bias that I strongly associated only males with careers, despite the fact that I am a proud feminist and desperately want equality of the sexes. This, along with some other surprising test results, left me contemplating exactly how prevalent unconscious biases are. The Implicit Bias test helped me to realize that everyone does indeed have some preconceived notions and prejudices, and that those things don’t necessarily make you a bad person. What marks the good from the bad is simply your willingness to accept your shortcomings and to work past your biases, whatever they may be. For that reason, I do believe that Hidden Bias tests are extremely useful in general, as they open people’s eyes to their own faults, and gives them an opportunity to change their viewpoints and become more accepting and inclusive as a whole. Additionally, I do believe that the Implicit Association Tests are even more important for those in positions of authority, such as teachers, doctors, government personnel, and individuals working within the judicial system. Research has shown that implicit bias has led to differential treatment at hospitals, can affect wages and raises, and can lead to harsher sentencing in court. By allowing officials to take these tests, they are then able to rectify any hidden biases they may have before they are potentially forced into a situation where they make discriminatory judgements. If the Implicit