The Implicit Association Test

The Implicit Association Test (IAT) measures unconscious biases by assessing the strength of automatic associations between mental concepts. Participants quickly categorize words or images related to different groups (e.g., race, gender) and attributes (e.g., good, bad). When certain pairings are easier or faster, it suggests a stronger automatic connection in the mind. The IAT reveals underlying attitudes that individuals might not be aware of or openly endorse, providing insight into implicit biases that can influence behavior and perceptions without conscious awareness.