Which of the following is an example of confirmation bias? While it is statistically more common for a White person to be violently assaulted by another White person, many Americans believe that Black people commit more violent crimes and actively seek to prove themselves right when watching the news or reading the newspaper. As a pediatrician, Jamie actively seeks to prescribe the same dosages of pain medication to children with similar symptoms, regardless of the language they speak or their race/ ethnicity. Dr. Jeff believes that if he gives incentives, like a metro card, to his adolescent research participants that they will spend it on drugs. Amy is terrified of flying because of the Flight 868 crash coverage that has dominated the airwaves this week.

Confirmation bias is like having a pair of goggles that only lets you see what you already believe! In this case, many Americans hold the belief that Black people commit more violent crimes, and they actively seek out news stories that reinforce this notion, ignoring data that may tell a different story. This selective gathering of information only serves to strengthen their existing beliefs and can lead to skewed perceptions of reality. Now, let’s sprinkle in some real-world flair! This cognitive bias can significantly impact societal issues, including criminal justice and public policies. It plays a role in shaping opinions on racial profiling and media reporting, where sensationalized stories can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. By recognizing and addressing confirmation bias, individuals can strive for a more balanced and accurate understanding of crime and race, fostering a society rooted in deeper empathy and awareness.