Are you ageist? Are you sure? 

Why does it matter, anyway? In this session, we defined and discussed implicit bias and micro-aggression, and we talked about how and why to counter these in yourself and others. While we discussed this in the context of aging and ageism, these concepts are applicable to other *isms as well.  Listen now to the Coffee Break from Dec. 2, 2016.

Implicit bias is ” the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner.” (Kirwan Institute) They affect us subconsciously, even when we think we are being impartial, and can even differ from what we think our preferences are. Importantly, they are malleable and can be changed gradually.

Strategies to counter implicit bias:

1. Become aware of your own implicit biases – you can’t fight your biases if you don’t know about them.

• Take the Harvard Implicit Bias tests is one way to do this.

2. Learn about diverse viewpoints and experiences. Read. Attend diversity seminars and other educational programs.

• 50 facts about aging quiz
• Any book or movie recommendations that reveal aging viewpoints? Email me! litzelman@wisc.edu

3. Self-monitoring. Notice when you are relying on a stereotype, and try to proactively counter it. Notice and call out micro-aggressions (especially your own).

4. Increase exposure to stigmatized groups.

• Screen saver (folder of photos)
  Download the folder slide show for -isms by clicking the three dots nest to the folder and selecting download.
  Store in your picture folder, then follow these directions: for Windows 7 (video) or Windows 10 (step by step instructions).
• Volunteering at Senior Centers, Life Long Learning events, intergenerational opportunities, etc.

Further reading/watching/listening about ageism:

• How Ageism Is A Form Of Oppression from The Joy Cardin Show on WPR, April 8, 2016
• Are You Guilty of Positive Ageism? in APA Psychology Benefits Society, October 1, 2016
• The Pernicious Problem of Ageism in American Society on Aging, October, 22, 2015

Further reading about implicit bias and how to counter it:

• Overcoming Implicit Bias and Racial Anxiety in Psychology Today, January 23, 2015
• The Mind Is a Difference-Seeking Machine conversation with Mahzarin Banaji podcast on On Being, June 9, 2016.  Or listen to the embedded audio file: The Mind is a Difference Seeking Machine.
• The Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion provides additional information about implicit bias for UW Colleges and UW-Extension employees when you sign in on the Resources page.