The subtle effects of implicit bias instructions

Judges are increasingly using “implicit bias” instructions in jury trials an effort to reduce the influence of jurors’ biases on judgment. In this paper, we report findings from a large-scale mock study that tests impact implicit bias judgment case where defendant race was varied (Black or White). Using experimental design, collected and analyzed quantitative qualitative data at individual group levels obtained 120 small-groups who viewed simulated federal drug conspiracy trial then deliberated determine verdict. We find while participants were sensitized importance being unbiased, had no measurable verdict outcomes relative standard instructions. Our analysis deliberations, however, reveals those heard more likely discuss issue bias, potentially with both ameliorative harmful effects defendant. Most significantly, identified multiple instances where, avoid interfered their own other participants’ appropriate assessments witness credibility. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.