APA 7th Citation Guide

In scientific and academic writing, bias refers to the "implied or irrelevant evaluation of the groups or groups" the author is writing about (American Psychological Association, 2019, p. 131).  When we write with bias, whether intentional or not, we can perpetuate harmful assumptions or prejudices about the subjects of our writing.  To help authors use inclusive language, this section of the guide will outline the APA's recommendations for bias-free writing.  For a more detailed account of these guidelines, refer to chapter 5 of the 7th edition of the guide or to APA Style online.  

In Your Writing 

• Focus on relevant characteristics - It is not always necessary to include all the demographic detail you may have on a subject.  Consider what details, identities, and characteristics are necessary to include.  If there are multiple relevant characteristics, be sure to address the ways in which these characteristics intersect (see resources on intersectionality for help).  
• Acknowledge that differences do exist - Sometimes "difference" is relevant to your topic.  If it is, be sure to evaluate the meaning of "difference" carefully in relation to dominant groups.  
• Be appropriately specific - Choose words that are precise, accurate, and free of bias or prejudicial connotations.  When in doubt, be more specific.  See the resources in the "Reducing Bias by Topic" section of this guide for examples by topic.  
• Acknowledge people's humanity - Center your writing around the individuality and humanity of the people about whom you are writing.  An easy way to do this is to avoid describing people with adjectives as nouns, instead opting for nouns with adjectives or descriptive noun phrases (e.g. "gay men" instead of "the gays").  
• Provide operational definitions and labels - Be sure to define the terms you use early in your paper.  Avoid pejorative labels or abbreviations, which can be unclear and problematic. 
• Avoid false hierarchies  - Compare with care.  When possible, use parallel designations for groups and be cognizant of the ways in which comparisons might introduce or perpetuate bias.  
• Be sensitive to labels - Recognize that language changes over time and that there may be disagreement between individuals within groups about how to self-identify.
• Recognize which terms are appropriate for individuals from outside the group - Some individuals may use slurs or otherwise stigmatizing language to refer to themselves or others within the group.  Use extreme caution before repeating this language and be sure to contextualize it appropriately.  

During the Research and Editing Process 

• Consider the appropriate level of specificity early in the process - If you are conducting research, it may not be possible to gather more data later, so consider specificity when you design your study. 
• Reread your work for preconceptions about groups of people - Consider editing for bias as you would grammar and spelling.  
• Ask people from the group(s) about which you are writing to review your work -  When possible and appropriate. 
• Consult self-advocacy groups - These groups can help you determine appropriate terminology. 
• Ask participants or members of the group - If you have direct contact with research participants, as them what terms they use to identify themselves.  

Below are APA's guidelines for reducing bias in your writing by topic.  They provide concrete examples of the general guidelines, as well was outline language appropriate for specific groups.  If you need to write about the way in which these characteristics may intersect, see the resources on intersectionality.  If you're writing about topics that require historical context, refer to the section on historical context.