Implicit Bias is Real, Implicit Bias Training Matters: Responding to the Negative Press

Abstract

The Huffington Post recently reported “‘Implicit bias’ training don’t actually change police behavior, Anti-racism courses are too short, too simplistic – and may be making things worse.” We beg to differ. Because we worry that headlines like this weaken respect for implicit bias training at a time when it is most in demand and most needed, we write to offer a more extended analysis. This paper reviews the sources of criticism of implicit bias, reviews studies showing effectiveness of well constructed training, and suggests intentions for going forward.