What components make up bias?

The components that make up bias encompass prejudices, attitudes, and stereotypes. Prejudices refer to preconceived notions or judgments about individuals based on their group affiliation, such as race, gender, or religion, often formed without appropriate knowledge or experience. Attitudes are the evaluations we make regarding people or situations, which can be positive or negative and are shaped by our background and experiences. Stereotypes are oversimplified generalized beliefs about a group of people, which can lead to inaccurate assumptions and further entrench biases.

Engaging with these components helps in understanding how bias develops and manifests in various contexts, including law enforcement. By recognizing prejudices, attitudes, and stereotypes, peace officers can work towards counteracting their effects, fostering fairness and equity in their interactions with the community.