implicit social cognition

Implicit social cognition refers to the automatic, unconscious mental processes that influence how we perceive, interpret, and respond to others and social situations. These mental shortcuts or beliefs develop through experiences and societal influences, often operating without our awareness. For example, we might silently associate certain traits with specific groups or feel immediate reactions to people without actively thinking about it. Recognizing implicit social cognition helps us understand biases and stereotypes that can unintentionally shape our behavior, allowing for greater self-awareness and more conscious, fairer social interactions.