[Non]conscious Influence: Understanding and Addressing Implicit Bias

Implicit bias, or non-conscious bias, affects decision-making through stereotype activation and is connected to behavioral outcomes. Using the understanding of impact versus intent as a frame for learning about implicit bias will be highlighted to help reduce the negative influences of bias in the work.  At the conclusion of this presentation, discussion of cultural humility will create an opportunity for forward movement in self-discovery.

Objectives: 

1.  Describe concepts of impact versus intent for greater understanding of shifting focus

2. Explain how implicit bias is formed and how it could affect decision-making

3. Discuss strategies for creating opportunities to move forward in understanding cultural humility in our daily lives

Chris Martin, MSW, LMSW, PhD

Dr. Chris Martin is an Associate Professor and MSW Program Director in the School of Social Work at St. Ambrose University and serves as the Interim Associate Dean for the College of Health and Human Services.  She teaches both diversity and advanced individual and family skills courses in the School.  Her scholarship lies in the area of implicit racial bias and this led her to create a curriculum for the Iowa Department of Human Services to educate both employees of the Department and community members across the state in a 6 hour implicit bias learning exchange.  Dr. Martin is committed to the teaching and learning of bias, characteristics of white supremacy, antiracism, and social justice.