Explicit bias is defined as?

• A. An unconscious preference that affects judgments without awareness.
• B. A policy that ensures equal opportunity.
• C. A conscious choice that occurs when people associate one or more characteristics with negative stereotypes; people with explicit bias are aware of their hatred, hostility, or beliefs and openly express it.
• D. A random error in perception that affects decisions.

Answer: (C)

Explicit bias is about conscious attitudes toward a group that you are aware of and may express openly. It involves holding and openly expressing beliefs or hostility based on negative stereotypes, a deliberate stance you can acknowledge and articulate. This is different from implicit bias, which operates unconsciously; it’s not about a policy or a random perceptual error—those don’t describe a person’s conscious beliefs or openly stated attitudes. The correct description captures the idea of awareness and explicit expression of biased beliefs.