Implicit Bias

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Implicit bias includes the innate opinions and beliefs we have about the world, and specifically, the people in it. Our implicit bias is like a lens that we see others (and ourselves) through. It is shaped by our culture, our experiences, and our education. In her talk, "You Can't Be What You Can't See," Dr. Gibbs asserts that our cultural identity is a complex thing. Cultural identity is not limited to race, ethnicity, and religion. Someone who is the same race as me could be raised in a far different culture! Identifying with others culturally, nonetheless, is an important part of occupational therapy. Thus, it is essential to identify our biases in order to truly understand our clients. Listening to and grasping the needs, wants, desires, and fears of our clients requires humility and open-mindedness. Our presence (our therapeutic use of self), can lead our clients to be comfortable with who they are and with trusting us with that precious, vulnerable knowledge.

In order to promote diversity and understanding, we must become aware of our own biases. We can do this by taking surveys that divulge some of our implicit beliefs. We can grow by going into new situations and places, and meeting new people. Getting to know people who aren't like us can help us to break down biased opinions and barriers. We can promote positive change by advocating for the profession of occupational therapy, and drawing in all types of individuals to the field. The more diverse practitioners there are in the field of occupational therapy, the more clients we can relate to and influence for the better. In all, we must remember the AOTA's Centennial Vision, "...a globally connected and diverse workforce, meeting society's occupational needs," and we must adapt our lives to bring the vision to reality.

https://www.aota.org/AboutAOTA/Get-Involved/BOD/2016-centennial-vision.aspx

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