Unconscious biases are automatic judgements we make about others based on our background, culture, and experiences. They can influence how we perceive and interact with people, often without us even realising it. Here are ten common types of biases, along with real-life examples to help you identify them.
1. Affinity Bias
Affinity bias is our tendency to favour people who are like us or share similar interests.
Example: Imagine you’re at a social gathering, and you meet someone who shares your favourite hobby. You instantly warm to them and spend the rest of the evening talking to them, while inadvertently ignoring others who might be equally interesting.
2. Confirmation Bias
Confirmation bias is when we seek out or focus on information that confirms what we already believe, ignoring evidence to the contrary.
Example: You believe a certain diet is the healthiest way to eat. So when you come across articles or people who agree with you, you readily accept their viewpoints, while dismissing research that suggests otherwise.
3. Halo Effect
The halo effect is when we form a positive impression of someone in one area, which influences our perception of their other qualities.
Example: You meet someone who is physically fit and well-groomed. Because of this, you assume they’re also disciplined and successful in other areas of their life, even though you don’t know them well.
4. Horns Effect
The horns effect is the opposite of the halo effect. A negative impression in one area leads us to judge someone unfavourably in other aspects.
Example: You see a person who speaks with an accent that sounds unfamiliar to you, and you subconsciously assume they might be less knowledgeable or
competent, even though this is untrue.
5. Attribution Bias
Attribution bias is when we attribute someone’s behaviour to their character rather than their situation, while attributing our own similar behaviour to external factors.
Example: If someone is late to meet you, you might assume they’re irresponsible.
But when you’re running late, you believe it’s due to traffic or other external reasons.
6. Gender Bias
Gender bias occurs when we favour one gender over another based on stereotypes or preconceptions.
Example: You’re choosing a babysitter and feel more comfortable hiring a female, despite having equally qualified male candidates. This bias is based on the stereotype that women are more nurturing.
7. Age Bias
Age bias is when we make assumptions about people based on their age.
Example: You may see a teenager using their phone and assume they’re being lazy or disengaged, rather than considering that they might be studying or reading something meaningful.
8. Cultural Bias
Cultural bias is when we judge others based on our own cultural norms.
Example: If someone doesn’t make direct eye contact during a conversation, you might think they’re being evasive or rude. However, in some cultures, avoiding eye contact is a sign of respect.
9. Beauty Bias
Beauty bias is the tendency to favour those who are considered more attractive by societal standards.
Example: At a party, you might find yourself drawn to engage with the most attractive people, assuming they’re friendlier or more interesting, even though you don’t know anything about them.
10. Name Bias
Name bias is when we make judgements about someone based on their name.
Example: You’re introduced to someone with an unusual or unfamiliar name, and you subconsciously assume they might be from a different background, or perhaps you even struggle to remember their name as easily as more familiar ones.
Recognising these biases in ourselves can feel uncomfortable, but it’s important to remember that biases are a natural part of human behaviour. And while they help us to make sense of the world around us, they also limit our ability to connect with others authentically.
However, with determination, self-awareness, and a willingness to unlearn and relearn, we can begin to overcome these automatic judgements and approach each interaction with greater openness and empathy. It’s a journey, but every step we take helps us build a more inclusive and understanding world.
I’ll leave you with one of my favourite quotes:
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
-Maya Angelou
Author:
Dinesh Joseph is a specialist on Leadership & Emotional Intelligence
