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Mimicry boosts social bias: unrealistic optimism in a health prevention case.

Authors :
Kulesza, Wojciech
Dolinski, Dariusz
Muniak, Paweł
Rizulla, Aidana
Source :
Social Influence; Dec2023, Vol. 18 Issue 1, p1-16, 16p
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Unrealistic optimism bias appears when a person perceives oneself – in comparison to peers – as less at risk from threats. This bias has been widely reported and the consequences are clear: it puts one's health in danger. The existing body of literature proposes egocentrism as a mechanism leading to a reduction in this bias. The present paper tests a novel mechanism orienting a person toward others – thus linked with egocentrism – i.e., mimicry. Results showed directly opposing effects: mimicry induced a stronger tendency to perceive oneself as less threatened. This result is not only surprising but especially alarming since mimicry may be used in patient-doctor dialogue which may backfire, leading to resistance to medical recommendations provided by the doctor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
15534510
Volume :
18
Issue :
1
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Social Influence
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
174204031
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/15534510.2023.2187880