Assignment Question

Take one (gender, age, race, sexuality, disability, or weight) of the Implicit Association Tests (IAT) at the Harvard University website. In 750-1,000 words, address the following: Examine how attitude is formed. Discuss how personal implicit biases can form understandings at a local, national, or global level. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the IAT as a research tool. Reflect on your personal results from the IAT. Use three to five scholarly sources to support your thinking, your textbook can be used as one of the resources.

Assignment Answer

Introduction

Attitudes play a crucial role in shaping our perceptions and behaviors towards individuals and groups. They can be influenced by a variety of factors, including personal implicit biases, which are subconscious associations and stereotypes that affect our understanding of others. The Implicit Association Test (IAT), developed by researchers at Harvard University, is a powerful tool used to uncover these implicit biases. In this essay, we will explore how attitudes are formed, the impact of personal implicit biases at local, national, and global levels, and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the IAT as a research tool. Furthermore, we will reflect on personal results from the IAT to gain insight into our own biases.

Formation of Attitudes

Attitudes are the mental and emotional evaluations or judgments that individuals have toward people, objects, or ideas. They can be formed through various processes, including socialization, personal experiences, and cultural influences. Socialization, which occurs from early childhood to adulthood, plays a significant role in shaping attitudes. During this period, individuals are exposed to various sources of information, such as family, peers, and media, which influence their beliefs and values (Krosnick, 2020). Additionally, personal experiences, both positive and negative, can shape attitudes. For example, an individual who has had positive experiences with people from a particular cultural group may develop a more positive attitude toward that group. Cultural influences, too, play a substantial role in attitude formation. Different cultures have unique values and norms, and individuals tend to adopt the attitudes prevalent within their cultural context. These cultural attitudes are often shaped by historical events, traditions, and societal norms (Hofstede, 2011). For instance, the attitude toward the role of women in society varies significantly between cultures, reflecting the cultural norms and values of each society.

Implicit Biases and Their Impact

Implicit biases are subconscious associations or stereotypes that individuals hold towards various groups, based on factors like gender, age, race, sexuality, disability, or weight. These biases are often formed as a result of exposure to stereotypes in media, cultural narratives, and social environments. They can significantly influence our understanding and interactions with others. Personal implicit biases can have a profound impact at local, national, and global levels. At the local level, these biases can affect interpersonal relationships, leading to discrimination and prejudice. For example, if an individual has implicit biases against a particular racial group, they may treat members of that group unfairly or with suspicion. This can result in tension and conflict within local communities.

On a national level, implicit biases can affect public policy and decision-making. Policymakers and politicians may hold implicit biases that influence their stance on various issues. These biases can lead to discriminatory policies that disproportionately affect certain groups, such as racial minorities or the LGBTQ+ community. This can perpetuate inequality and injustice at the national level. Implicit biases can also have global consequences. They can influence international relations and diplomacy, impacting trade agreements, immigration policies, and international cooperation. For instance, implicit biases against a particular nationality can lead to strained diplomatic relations and trade conflicts. In extreme cases, such biases can contribute to geopolitical tensions and even conflicts.

Strengths and Weaknesses of the IAT

The Implicit Association Test (IAT) has become a widely used tool for assessing implicit biases. It is designed to reveal unconscious preferences or prejudices by measuring the speed at which individuals associate certain concepts. While the IAT has its strengths, it also has several limitations. One of the strengths of the IAT is its ability to uncover implicit biases that individuals may not even be aware of themselves. This is crucial for promoting self-awareness and challenging discriminatory attitudes. The IAT is also relatively easy to administer, making it accessible to a wide range of participants. However, the IAT has some notable weaknesses. One criticism is its reliability; some argue that IAT results can vary over time and may not always accurately reflect an individual’s true biases (Greenwald & Krieger, 2006). Additionally, the IAT may not capture the full complexity of an individual’s attitudes and beliefs. It measures associations, which are just one aspect of implicit bias, and may not provide a complete picture of a person’s mindset.

Personal Reflection on IAT Results

Taking the IAT on Harvard University’s website was an eye-opening experience. The test I chose to take was the “Race IAT,” which evaluates implicit biases related to racial groups. My results showed a moderate implicit preference for one racial group over another. This was surprising and somewhat uncomfortable to confront, as I consider myself to be someone who values equality and treats all individuals fairly. This experience highlighted the subtlety of implicit biases. While I consciously strive to be fair and non-discriminatory, the IAT results revealed that there are implicit biases operating beneath the surface. This underscores the importance of self-awareness and continued efforts to challenge and change these biases.

Conclusion

Attitudes are complex mental constructs that are shaped by socialization, personal experiences, and cultural influences. Personal implicit biases, which are often formed through exposure to stereotypes and cultural narratives, play a significant role in shaping attitudes. These biases can have far-reaching effects at the local, national, and global levels, contributing to discrimination and inequality. The Implicit Association Test (IAT) is a valuable tool for uncovering these implicit biases, although it has its strengths and weaknesses. While it can help individuals become more aware of their biases, it may not provide a complete picture of one’s attitudes and beliefs. My personal results from the IAT were a reminder of the importance of self-reflection and the ongoing effort to confront and address implicit biases. In a world striving for greater equality and social justice, understanding the formation of attitudes and the impact of implicit biases is vital. By acknowledging these biases and working to change them, individuals can contribute to a more inclusive and fair society.

References

Greenwald, A. G., & Krieger, L. H. (2006). Implicit bias: Scientific foundations. California Law Review, 94(4), 945-967.

Hofstede, G. (2011). Dimensionalizing cultures: The Hofstede model in context. Online Readings in Psychology and Culture, 2(1), 8.

Krosnick, J. A. (2020). Attitude importance and attitude accessibility. In J. P. Dillard & L. Shen (Eds.), The Sage Handbook of Persuasion (pp. 111-129). Sage Publications.