Identify a bias to avoid when addressing inmate concerns.

• A. Assuming guilt or malicious intent based on current behavior.
• B. Failing to listen to the inmate and rushing to conclusions.
• C. Assuming guilt or malicious intent based on background; instead, gather facts and listen.
• D. Giving the inmate the benefit of the doubt without verifying facts.

Answer: (C)

Treating inmates without bias means basing conclusions on the actual facts of the situation and listening to what the inmate is saying, rather than letting stereotypes or assumptions colored by their background influence you. The bias described here—assuming guilt or malicious intent based on background—is something to avoid because it prejudges who the person is before you hear them, which can distort your understanding of the issue and lead to unfair outcomes. Instead, focus on gathering facts and listening to the inmate’s concerns to determine the real problem and respond appropriately. This approach protects fairness, builds trust, and improves the chances of a constructive resolution. While it’s also important not to rely solely on current behavior or to rush to conclusions, the specific bias tied to background is the one this item highlights as the most important to avoid.