February 17th The Bias Blog:

I see the young men walking down my street in a group every day.  They may be the most polite and educated kids to walk the earth.   But, I don't know them and if they are bigger than me than my bias is against them.   Yes, I am frightened by groups of boys walking down the street.   Admittedly that sounds pretty lame.  

For me it is a big concern, as a potential middle school teacher it highly probable that many of the kids will be bigger than me.   Also, as a parent to three boys who very likely will be much larger than me, it is something I have to deal with.  

In college there was an incident that I believe stems my bias.  I have accepted this part of my past, and have moved on, but it is a part of who I am.   However, I can't be afraid to interact with my students because they tower over me.  Lots of people tower over me, but often when seeing them from far off young men intimidate me, make me feel awkward and afraid.  I sometimes think "what if they tried to hurt me, they could probably succeed".    I like to think of myself as pretty tough, so I think that is why one young man doesn't threaten me like a group does.

I don't feel like my bias is debilitating, I can interact with teenagers and not feel petrified.  I volunteered with our youth group and had a good time.  I think once I get to know the students this bias will be put to the back of my mind.   So, I will make an effort to know my students and feel comfortable interacting with them.   I want to be a good teacher and a good role model and I can't do that if I feel afraid.