Compensation

Explanations > Theories > Compensation

Description | Example | So What? | See also | References 

Description

When we believe other people perceive us in a negative way, we will deliberately act in a way to disconfirm this belief.

Example

When you first meet people, you may fear that they find you unfriendly, so you act in a way that is more friendly than you usually are.

So what?

Using it

Infer to a person or otherwise let them know that they are considered greedy. Then ask them for something that will require them to act in a generous way.

Defending

Be yourself. Avoid getting railroaded by people who tell you that you are what you are not.

See also

Cognitive Dissonance, Confirmation Bias, Self-Fulfilling Prophecy, Self-Verification Theory

References

Fiske and Taylor (1991)

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