Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

What term describes the attitudes or stereotypes that unconsciously influence our understanding and decisions?

1. Implicit bias

2. Anchoring

3. Vicarious trauma

4. Mongolian spots

The correct answer is: Implicit bias

Implicit bias refers to the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner. These biases are often formed through various societal influences and personal experiences, and they operate below the level of conscious awareness. They can lead individuals to favor or disfavor certain groups or individuals based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, or socio-economic status, even if they consciously reject those stereotypes or beliefs. Recognizing implicit bias is crucial, especially in fields such as child protection, where decisions made can profoundly impact the lives of vulnerable children and families. Understanding implicit bias allows practitioners to mitigate its effects by reflecting on their own attitudes and ensuring that their decisions are based on objective criteria rather than unrecognized stereotypes. The other terms listed do not accurately describe these unconscious influences. Anchoring refers to the cognitive bias where individuals rely heavily on the first piece of information encountered when making decisions. Vicarious trauma is the emotional residue from exposure to the suffering of others, which can affect professionals in caregiving roles but does not relate specifically to the unconscious stereotypes or attitudes. Mongolian spots are benign blue or purple marks found on the skin of some babies and are unrelated to biases or stereotypes.