Follow the Science: Proven Strategies for Reducing Unconscious Bias

Abstract

Mediators, arbitrators, and lawyers have a duty to be unbiased, and yet they-like others in society-are influenced by unconscious biases. Social psychologists have explored the origins of these biases and, in recent years, developed experimental techniques for reducing unconscious bias. This article surveys the social psychology literature regarding such techniques and identifies seven main categories of promising interventions: awareness, motivation, individuation, perspective-taking, contact, stereotype replacement, and mindfulness. The article suggests several real-world applications of these techniques to address both individual and systemic biases and concludes with a description of some unanswered questions regarding bias reduction strategies.

Keywords: unconscious bias, bias, bias reduction, social psychology, awareness, motivation, individuation, perspective-taking, contact, stereotype replacement, mindfulness