Halo Effect
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The term itself uses the analogy of a halo to describe how it can affect perceptions. In religious art, a halo is often portrayed over a saint's head, bathing the individual in a heavenly light to show that that person is good.
What is Halo Effect?
The "halo effect" is when one trait of a person or thing is used to make an overall judgment of that person or thing. It supports rapid decisions, even if biased ones. The halo effect describes a cognitive bias when judging others whereby judgements about that person’s character are influenced by an overall positive impression about that person. Originally developed by psychologist Edward Thorndike, the halo effect has been extensively studied in a variety of fields including physical attractiveness in relation to societal success as well as product marketing.
The statement ‘’Hitler loved dogs and little children'’ is shocking no matter how many times you hear it, because any trace of kindness in someone so evil violates the expectations of people set up by halo effect.
One great example of the halo effect in action is our overall impression of celebrities. Since people perceive them as attractive, successful, and often likable, they also tend to see them as intelligent, kind, and funny. Physical appearance is often a major part of the halo effect. People who are considered attractive tend to be rated higher on other positive traits as well.
However, this attractiveness stereotype can also be a double-edged sword. Other studies have found that while people are more likely to ascribe a host of positive qualities to attractive people, they are also more likely to believe that good-looking individuals are vain, dishonest, and likely to use their attractiveness to manipulate others. It makes it easier to anticipate, recognize and understand.
Halo effect becomes the method of jumping into conclusions.
The halo effect can influence how teachers treat students, but it can also impact how students perceive teachers. In one study, researchers found that when an instructor was viewed as warm and friendly, students also rated them as more attractive, appealing, and likable. Job applicants are also likely to feel the impact of the halo effect. If a prospective employer views the applicant as attractive or likable, they are more likely to also rate the individual as intelligent, competent, and qualified. When a celebrity spokesperson endorses a particular item, our positive evaluations of that individual can spread to our perceptions of the product itself.
Of course, being aware of the halo effect still doesn't make it easy to avoid its influence on our perceptions and decisions. The halo effect is just one of many biases that allow people to make snap decisions but also contributes to errors in judgment.
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