Bias-free communication
Bias-free communication is speech or writing that attempts to be equally inclusive of people of all ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, religious affiliations, abilities, and ages by communicating in a way that makes no assumptions about the receiver of such communication.[2][3][4]
An important part of communicating in a bias-free manner is by making sure to engaging in meaningful conversations using bias-free language. The writer's word choice is vital in terms of effectively communicating in ways that do not offend the receiver. According to Locker, "Bias-free language is language that is sensitive to people's sex, race, age, physical condition and many other categories. Bias-free language does not discriminate and therefore includes all readers in a fair and friendly manner."[5]
Identifying Bias
Bias exists everywhere, even if it is not always acknowledged. If a verbal or written communication includes any of the following, it may be biased:
- Unsupported claims.
- Extreme or inappropriate language.
- For written text, there may be no clear author.
- Spoken communication may have a speaker with a poor reputation.[6]
These sources should be questioned for their bias because it could impact their validity in their points. Therefore, avoiding bias in all communication will ensure that the point is crystal clear and the speaker is trusted.
Practicing Bias-free Communication
Practicing bias-free communication may reduce the prejudice that may be implied. This prejudice is often linked to preexisting oppression in society, and may not always be acknowledged at fist glance. Communication, written or spoken, is extremely important in making connections and demonstrating thoughts. Using bias-free language is especially important in the workplace. Educators should avoid using bias because it is impossible to know every students background, and therefore, educators may cause damage to students self-image. If a job included writing and sending mass emails the writer should take caution when writing because the readers may have different lived experiences than the author. By taking out any bias it allows for all parties to focus on the intended message rather than attempting to sift through bias, intentional or otherwise. Below are some examples that can be implemented easily:
| Bias | Unbiased Alternative |
|---|---|
| manpower | workers or workforce |
| sexual preference | sexual orientation |
| old person | older adult |
| non-white | people of color |
| transient | person experiencing homelessness |
| addict | person with substance abuse disorder |
| crazy | person with mental illness |
References
- Messner, Lindsey. "Why and How to Communicate with Bias-Free, Inclusive Language". Harris and Associates. Harris and Associates Inc. Retrieved 10 July 2022.
- "Bias-Free Communication: Guidelines for Communicating in a Diverse Community". Michigan State University. Archived from the original on October 26, 2015. Retrieved October 19, 2015.
- "Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Sixth Edition American Psychological Association". Archived from the original on March 5, 2013. Retrieved October 19, 2015.
- "APA Style". Washington, DC: American Psychological Association. Archived from the original on March 27, 2013. Retrieved October 19, 2015.
- "Bias-free Language" (PDF). Fred Meijer Center for Writing and Michigan Authors. 12 June 2019.
- "What is Bias? Identifying Bias-- Research Guides at University of Wisconsin- Green Bay". UW- Green Bay Libraries. University of Wisconsin Green Bay. Retrieved 10 July 2022.