Thorndike's halo effect suggests that people tend to do what when they notice one positive trait?

Thorndike's halo effect suggests that people tend to do what when they notice one positive trait?

• A. Form an unbiased opinion on the individual
• B. View the individual in a more negative light
• C. Generalize that trait to form an overall favorable impression
• D. Ignore the individual’s other traits

Answer: (C)

Thorndike's halo effect refers to a cognitive bias where the perception of one positive trait influences the overall impression of that person, leading to a generalized favorable view. When an individual recognizes a single positive quality—such as kindness or intelligence—they are likely to assume that the person possesses other positive traits as well, despite lacking evidence for those additional qualities. This phenomenon contributes to the tendency to overlook negative traits or shortcomings, as the initial positive perception casts a favorable "halo" over the entire assessment of that person's character. Thus, the correct answer illustrates how people often extrapolate from one observed positive characteristic to form an overall positive judgment about the individual.

Thorndike's halo effect refers to a cognitive bias where the perception of one positive trait influences the overall impression of that person, leading to a generalized favorable view. When an individual recognizes a single positive quality—such as kindness or intelligence—they are likely to assume that the person possesses other positive traits as well, despite lacking evidence for those additional qualities. This phenomenon contributes to the tendency to overlook negative traits or shortcomings, as the initial positive perception casts a favorable "halo" over the entire assessment of that person's character. Thus, the correct answer illustrates how people often extrapolate from one observed positive characteristic to form an overall positive judgment about the individual.