Hidden biases in families are often passed on quietly through everyday routines, family narratives, comfort zones and assumptions about other people. Children do not just inherit eye colour, traditions or routines; they also inherit lenses – the beliefs, fears and stories through which families make sense of the world around them.
Some of these lenses help us to connect, stay curious and build empathy. Others can become distorted over time, shaped by silence, inherited fear, limited contact, stereotypes or long-held family narratives about “people like us” and “people like them.”
How hidden biases in families show up
In this short video, I explore six ways families can begin to identify their hidden biases and distorted lenses. The aim is not to induce guilt or blame, but to invite reflection. If we want to raise children who can think critically, relate across difference and build bridges of empathy, we have to become more aware of the stories and assumptions they are absorbing from us every day.
In this reflection, I explore how families can begin to:
- ask where a belief came from
- notice whose voices and experiences are missing
- identify the comfort zones or “caves” that shape family thinking
- challenge inherited narratives and generalisations
- reflect on everyday judgements
- intentionally widen their lens through diverse stories, relationships and experiences
This video sits within the wider Six Stages Framework and Building Bridges of Empathy work, which explores how bias, belonging, exclusion and empathy are shaped in everyday life — and how change begins with awareness.
In this video, I explore:
- How hidden family beliefs are formed and passed on
- Why children inherit social lenses as well as values
- How to notice missing voices, comfort zones and inherited narratives
- How everyday assumptions can shape empathy, belonging and exclusion
- Six practical ways families can begin widening their lens
Reflection question:
What beliefs, fears or assumptions might families be passing on to children without even realising it?
Check out more videos
https://www.sixstagesframework.com/category/building-bridges-of-empathy/
https://www.sixstagesframework.com/category/building-bridges-of-empathy/
