IAT Response...

After taking the IAT multiple times, I was faced with the same label each time. I felt as though, initially, I had no bias towards race. After multiple attempts to try and "beat" the test, I was again and again labeled as having a "moderate preference for European American over African American." This bothered me in a way because I didn't believe I had any predispositions regarding race, but an unconscious bias does exist. I was almost angered by this test and it really got me thinking. I realize that sometimes, being in the presence or growing up a certain way under certain conditions, may be what creates these unconsious biases. Sometimes, it may be no fault of our own, just preconceived notions that were instilled in us as we grew up. Instead of being more angry with the results, I decided to use the test results as a means for being more actively aware of the world around me, appreciating the differences in people, and accepting others for who they truly are. This test had me thinking more about people, in general, not just African and European Americans.

I was, however, not surprised with my results on the gender test. I was labeled as having "a slight association of male with career and female with family." I have always had this kind of mindset growing up. My mother ran a small at-home daycare while I was growing up, while my dad went to work everyday. My mother was a caregiver and always was there for her family. She was home to help me with my homework, while my dad got home later, but still managed to spend time reading me goodnight stories. I think women are seen as maternal, loving, and are respected most as caregivers to their families. Men, while play an important role, are always viewed as the hardworkers, more corporate figures. While these are my views from growing up, I know that in today's world, women are just as qualified and suited for the workplace as men are and I support and honor the women who take on the difficult roles of wife, mother, and career-driven businesswoman.