Overview
This short video discusses how forming friendships across racial lines can help reduce implicit bias and highlights research supporting this simple but effective approach.
Reducing Implicit Bias
- Implicit bias refers to attitudes or stereotypes that affect our actions unconsciously.
- Building friendships that cross racial divides can effectively reduce these unconscious biases.
- Research demonstrates that regular social interaction between people of different races can decrease prejudice.
- Even casual, everyday "hanging out" helps dismantle stereotypes and foster understanding.
The Power of Social Interaction
- Cross-racial friendships encourage empathy and challenge assumptions about others.
- Shared experiences during informal gatherings build trust and reduce group-based anxiety.
- Increased comfort and familiarity with diverse individuals leads to fairer perceptions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Implicit bias — unconscious attitudes or stereotypes influencing behavior toward others.
- Cross-racial friendships — relationships formed between people of different racial backgrounds.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Seek opportunities to spend time with people from different racial or cultural backgrounds.
- Reflect on personal biases and observe how diverse friendships may influence them.