Description
Scenario
You are a public health official who has been asked to talk with a group of parents about the importance of addressing childhood obesity and the steps that each family can take. This parent group is made up of primarily low-income and ethnically diverse members. Prior to the meeting, you reflect on your own need to be aware of any unconscious bias that you might bring to the presentation about low-income parents and those with various ethnic values regarding food. In discussing this with your supervisor, she suggests that you take one of Harvard University’s Impact Assessments and reflect on how your own biases may impact your communication regarding childhood obesity. She asks to meet with you again as you prepare your presentation to discuss how you will use this information to craft your message.
Instructions
Part 1
Conduct a self-assessment for unconscious bias from Harvard’s Impact Program (there are several to choose from).
Reflect on how these biases may impact your use of messaging regarding the sensitivities of low-income and culturally diverse parents on the topic of healthy behaviors and obesity.
Part 2
Using Microsoft Word, write a reflection paper. Include information on how your results will impact your approach to the parent group presentation. Include the following information:
Which assessment did you complete?
What were your overall results?
Did you agree with the results?
What improvements can you make when dealing with this group/issue?
How can unconscious bias affect communication (include a minimum of two references for support)?