The Language We Use: Providers' Perceptions About Families.

Area of Science:

• Early Childhood Intervention
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Unconscious biases can influence professional perceptions and decisions.
• Implicit bias lacks empirical research within early childhood intervention (ECI).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how early interventionists describe families and children.
• To identify implicit biases in ECI professionals' language and perceptions.
• To examine strategies supporting vulnerable families.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological study utilizing nine focus groups with ECI professionals.
• Thematic qualitative analysis of language used to describe families and children.

Main Results:

• Three themes emerged: perceptions of parenting, capability, and priorities.
• ECI professionals' characterizations sometimes reflected implicit bias.
• Language used was both aligned with and contrary to family-centeredness.

Conclusions:

• Implicit bias is present in ECI professionals, impacting family interactions.
• Findings underscore the need for improved personnel preparation and practice changes.
• Culturally sustaining practices are essential for equitable ECI.