Unconscious Biases

Unconscious (implicit) biases are pre-judgments or mental shortcuts we make about others. We all harbor beliefs about members of various social and identity groups. As educators and health professionals, our mental shortcuts can lead to harmful assumptions about individuals from historically, systematically, and persistently excluded groups. If left unchecked, these shortcuts can negatively impact student and patient care. Therefore, it is crucial to reflect on biases about different groups and implement practices that mitigate the effects of biases, preventing behaviors that may harm students and patients. Learn more about mitigating biases in the REDI Best Practices Tip Sheet: Mitigating Cognitive Biases in Hiring.