How are explicit biases different from implicit biases?

Explicit biases are deliberate and conscious attitudes or beliefs that individuals are aware of and can openly express. For example, someone may state their preference for or against a certain group of individuals based on their race, gender, or another characteristic. These biases are often shaped by personal experiences, cultural influences, and societal norms, and they can be articulated and communicated clearly.

In contrast, implicit biases operate subconsciously, meaning individuals may not be aware of them or may find it difficult to acknowledge these biased attitudes. These biases can influence judgments and behaviors without the individual’s conscious awareness, often rooted in automatic associations formed through socialization and exposure to stereotypes.

This distinction is crucial in understanding how biases can affect decision-making and behavior in various settings, particularly in corrections, where implicit biases may inadvertently impact interactions with inmates or decision-making processes. Recognizing that explicit biases are conscious preferences while implicit biases function outside of awareness allows for better approaches to training and interventions aimed at reducing bias in correctional settings.