Topic 3: Recognizing Bias and Barriers in Recovery Support

Even with the best intentions, everyone has unconscious biases that can impact their work. Ethical peer support requires actively identifying and addressing these biases to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all peers.

Common Biases in Peer Support:

• Stereotyping: Assuming things about a peer based on background, gender, or identity.

• Recovery Path Bias: Favoring one recovery approach over another.

• Language & Communication Bias: Misinterpreting or dismissing experiences due to language barriers or communication styles.

Example:

A peer specialist unconsciously assumes that a peer from a rural area may not be open to harm reduction strategies. Instead of imposing assumptions, the specialist asks open-ended questions to understand the peer’s recovery perspective.

Best Practice: Engage in self-reflection and training to recognize and reduce unconscious bias in peer work.