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Sep 25, 2024 03:55 PM IST
All old sayings have some truth to them, as a new study suggests that instead of relying on decisions based on first impressions, one should ‘think about it’.
It’s a deep-seated tendency to jump to conclusions after the first conversation. It’s common, but hasty decisions often lead to poor outcomes. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General showed that you have better decision-making ability when you consider an issue the next day after a good night’s sleep. Time, space, and sleep help develop a clearer perspective and allow for a more in-depth understanding before making a quick assessment.
Also read: Memory and well-being: how false memories affect our sense of self and collective experience
Priority effect
The primacy effect is responsible for the effect of first impressions. Memory for the first interaction with anything is stronger. The first items on any list are considered more important and are often given more weight than others. This causes the initial encounter to influence the entire perception of that place or person. As this bias takes over, people continue to think according to the evaluations made from first impressions, limiting their ability to consider new or conflicting information.
Literally ‘sleeping on it’
This bias can lead to hasty decisions that may not be the best. The researchers suggest literally “sleeping on it.” After a day, the preference bias weakens, allowing for more rational and thoughtful decisions. This shows the essential role of sleep in enhancing decision-making abilities and memory consolidation.
Acting based only on first impressions can be impulsive, as evaluations are often based on incomplete information. However, giving your brain time to understand the bigger picture leads to more balanced decisions and better results.
Also read: Can excessive screen time lead to ‘digital dementia’? Tips to avoid harmful effects
Real-world implications
The primacy effect has many real-world applications. For example, in job interviews, early candidates may outperform equally qualified candidates due to the order in which they are interviewed. Decisions made on the spot may be flawed due to this first-order bias. Similarly, in restaurants, food reviews may be influenced by the first impression, which may be positive or negative, and the entire review will focus on that angle rather than a balanced view. The brain grabs the first information it receives, building an elaborate network of evaluations and judgments around that single piece, creating an incomplete picture.
Also read: Fragrance and mental health: 7 scents that can evoke powerful emotions, memories and recall
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