What is defined as a strong belief or feeling about a person, group, or subject that is formed without reviewing all available facts?

The correct choice is identified as bias or prejudice, which refers to the strong beliefs or feelings that are held toward individuals or groups without an objective evaluation of all relevant facts or evidence. This concept highlights how these pre-formed notions can influence judgment or behavior, often leaning toward negativity or unfairness. Bias and prejudice are significant because they can affect interpersonal relationships and decision-making processes, particularly in fields such as corrections, where impartiality and equity are crucial for effective rehabilitation and management of individuals.

In contrast, discrimination typically involves actions taken based on bias, whereas an assumption is a belief that something is true without proof, but it lacks the emotionally charged aspect of bias. Professionalism refers to the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize a profession, and does not relate directly to the formation of beliefs or feelings about individuals or groups. Thus, recognizing bias or prejudice is essential for individuals in corrections to manage their roles effectively and ethically.