Recognizing and Reducing Implicit Bias: Strategies to Improve Equity in Dermatology by Susan Massick, MD
Recognizing and Reducing Implicit Bias: Strategies to Improve Equity in Dermatology By Susan Massick, MD Implicit Bias in Dermatology The Merriam-Webster definition of “bias” is “an inclination of temperament or outlook.” By itself, bias is a neutral term, but one can harbor biases that are positive or negative aimed toward a person, an object, or a concept. “Explicit bias” pertains to our beliefs on a conscious level—we are aware of them; however, “implicit bias” refers to our unconscious beliefs and attitudes outside of our conscious awareness that may positively or negatively impact our behavior, our actions, and our decisions. What are examples of common implicit biases? · Gender · Race/Ethnicity · Age · Religion · Sexual orientation · Socioeconomic · Disability It may be helpful to try to identify your personal implicit biases. Consider taking an implicit bias test, such as the Implicit A