How the Halo Effect impacts our perceptions
The Halo Effect is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a cognitive bias wherein judgment of an object on one dimension will affect judgment on other dimensions”. This means that if someone has a generally positive opinion of something, their impression of any other aspect of it will have a positive tint. Vice versa for negative opinions.
This effect is mostly studied in regards to how impressions are formed by different aspects and details, but it can easily be seen in more abstract examples. For example, judging a celebrity based on his/her physical appearance might lead to him/her being judged positively on any other characteristic, such as intelligence or performance.
This can be dangerous when making important decisions. Halo Effect can mask the true value of a certain person or thing, and only through conscious effort can it be avoided.
It is especially important to keep Halo Effect in mind when judging online media, as studies have shown that Internet users are more likely to fall into this trap. For instance, if you find a site, or online personality helpful for one particular thing or expertise, then you may tend to trust everything that comes from this source, even if it contradicts many other trustworthy or scientifically accurate sources or individuals.
Halo Effect can be kept in check by reminding yourself to keep an open mind when consuming any form of media, or information. For instance, just because you enjoy watching a certain program or type of show, it doesn’t mean that everything they say is factual. Instead, one should look at the information as just another perspective and evaluate this for themselves. Practice saying to yourself, “This is one perspective or opinion, but I am sure there are other ways to look at this.” Then, go look at other perspectives or opinions. Gather all your facts objectively.
Research has found that the Halo Effect may play a role in educational settings. Teachers may interact with students differently based on their appearance and these differences in interactions may impact students’ academic achievement.
The Halo Effect can also apply to online communication. People cannot always see you when you are talking to them through your computer or phone (unless you are on zoom), so it is possible that people will judge you based on your screen name or profile picture rather than getting to know you first.
In order to be aware of the Halo Effect’s potential influence over your decisions and opinions , you can try putting yourself in others’ shoes and imagining how they might react to your words or actions. Also, keep an open mind and avoid making snap judgements about people.
The Halo Effect impacts our perceptions in many different ways, including the way we see ourselves and the way we judge others. Whether we realize it or not, our words and actions have a lot of influence on those around us. It is important that we remain aware of this impact so that we can avoid acting out negatively against others.
