Understanding Confirmation Bias in Psychology

The video explains confirmation bias, a tendency to favor information that confirms existing beliefs. It highlights how this bias can lead to self-fulfilling prophecies, as seen in a study where teachers' expectations influenced student performance. Examples from medicine and law enforcement illustrate how confirmation bias can skew judgment. The video emphasizes the importance of recognizing and countering this bias to avoid inaccurate conclusions.

What is the primary characteristic of confirmation bias?

• Changing beliefs frequently

• Seeking out new experiences

• Avoiding all forms of evidence

• Interpreting evidence to fit existing beliefs

In the study involving teachers, what was the outcome for students labeled as promising?

• They were unaffected by the labels

• They showed improvement due to increased attention

• They were transferred to different classes

• They performed worse due to pressure

How might confirmation bias affect a doctor's diagnosis?

• By consulting multiple specialists

• By ignoring patient history

• By focusing only on symptoms that support their initial theory

• By considering all possible diagnoses equally

What is a potential consequence of confirmation bias in law enforcement?

• Increased collaboration with communities

• More accurate crime-solving

• Biased investigation based on stereotypes

• Fewer arrests

According to Daniel Kahneman, what do scientists tend to do when faced with facts that contradict their theories?

• They publish the contradictory facts

• They immediately change their theories

• They disregard the inconsistent facts

• They seek additional evidence

Why is it important to recognize our vulnerability to confirmation bias?

• To confirm our existing beliefs

• To ensure we never change our beliefs

• To remain open to evidence that challenges our views

• To avoid all forms of evidence

What is a recommended strategy to guard against confirmation bias?

• Avoid forming any beliefs

• Rely solely on expert opinions

• Only seek information that supports your beliefs

• Be open to evidence that contradicts your beliefs