How does confirmation bias influence behavior?

Confirmation bias is a cognitive phenomenon where individuals tend to favor information that confirms their preexisting beliefs or hypotheses while disregarding information that contradicts them. This bias significantly influences behavior, particularly in social interactions and decision-making processes.

When confirmation bias is at play, individuals are likely to treat others based on their preconceived notions rather than objectively evaluating the information or the individual themselves. For example, if someone has a belief about a particular group of people, they may only acknowledge behaviors or evidence that align with that belief, reinforcing their original opinion without consideration of alternative perspectives.

This tendency can lead to a cycle where first impressions or stereotypes dictate how individuals are perceived and treated, often resulting in a lack of fairness. Rather than engaging with the unique attributes and behaviors of individuals, one's judgement is clouded by existing biases, which can perpetuate misunderstandings and conflicts. Understanding confirmation bias is crucial for promoting a more objective and fair approach to interactions, emphasizing the importance of being aware of our own beliefs and striving to seek out a broader range of perspectives and information.