Source Confusion refers to the phenomenon where an individual has difficulty determining the origin or source of information they have acquired through various means, such as memory, learning, or social interactions. This confusion can lead to misattribution, misinformation, and misunderstandings. Types of Source Confusion There are several types of Source Confusion: Causes of Source Confusion […]
Cognitive Biases: Social Cryptomnesia
Social Cryptomnesia refers to the phenomenon where an individual unconsciously remembers social interactions or conversations they had with others, but later recalls them as their own original thoughts or ideas. This can lead to unintended plagiarism, misattribution of credit, and altered perceptions of one’s relationships with others. History of Social Cryptomnesia The concept of Social […]
Cognitive Biases: False Memory
False memory refers to the phenomenon where people recall events or experiences that did not actually occur. These memories can be entirely fabricated, distorted, or altered in some way, leading individuals to believe they have experienced something that is not based on reality. Types of False Memories There are several types of false memories: Causes […]
Cognitive Biases: Cryptomnesia
Cryptomnesia is a psychological phenomenon in which an individual unconsciously remembers a previously encountered idea, concept, or creative work, and later recalls it as their own original thought. This can lead to unintentional plagiarism, where the person believes they have created something entirely new, when in fact they are drawing from their subconscious memory of […]
Cognitive Biases: Worse-Than-Average Effect
The Worse-Than-Average Effect (WTA) is a cognitive bias that occurs when people tend to perceive themselves as being worse than others in areas where they are actually average or even better. This phenomenon was first identified by psychologist Richard Nisbett and his colleagues in 1977. How the Worse-Than-Average Effect Works The WTA effect arises from […]
Cognitive Biases: Shared Information Bias
Shared Information Bias (SIB) is a cognitive bias that occurs when groups of people make decisions or form opinions based on information that is already shared and known to everyone in the group, rather than seeking out new, unique, or diverse perspectives. This phenomenon was first identified by psychologists Garold Stasser and William Titus in […]
Cognitive Biases: Social Comparison Bias
What is Social Comparison Bias? Social Comparison Bias, also known as social comparison theory or social identity theory, is a cognitive bias that affects how we perceive ourselves and others. It refers to our tendency to evaluate our own lives, achievements, and possessions by comparing them to those of others. This comparison can be with […]
Cognitive Biases: Reactive Devaluation
What is Reactive Devaluation? Reactive devaluation refers to a cognitive bias where individuals tend to mentally devalue, discount, or derogate something they desire but cannot possess or achieve. This phenomenon occurs as a defense mechanism to mitigate the discomfort and frustration associated with unattainable goals or desires. History of Reactive Devaluation Theory The concept of […]
Cognitive Biases: Reactance
What is Reactance? Reactance is a motivational state characterized by a negative emotional response to perceived restrictions, limits, or external influences on one’s behavior. This reaction can manifest as resistance, defiance, or even aggression towards the source of constraint. History of Reactance Theory The concept of reactance was first introduced in 1966 by psychologist Jack […]
Cognitive Biases: Pygmalion Effect
What is the Pygmalion Effect? The Pygmalion Effect, also known as the Rosenthal Effect or Interpersonal Expectancy Effect, refers to the tendency for people to perform better when they are expected to do so by others, particularly those in positions of authority. This means that individuals tend to live up to (or down to) the […]