Cognitive bias refers to the systematic errors in thinking that can occur when people process information in the world around them. Essentially, cognitive bias occurs when people interpret information in a way that is influenced by their pre-existing beliefs, values, and expectations. In other words, our perception of reality is not objective, but is filtered through our own biases.
One way in which cognitive bias can be influenced is through exposure to negative information and people. When we surround ourselves with negativity, we can become biased in our thinking, leading to a negative experience overall.
For example, let’s say you’re constantly watching the news, which tends to focus on negative events like crime, violence, and political unrest. Over time, this can lead to a phenomenon called “mean world syndrome,” which is a cognitive bias that makes people believe that the world is more dangerous than it actually is. In reality, crime rates have been steadily declining in many parts of the world, but if all you see is negative news, you may develop a biased perception that the world is a dangerous place.
Similarly, if you surround yourself with negative people who are always complaining, criticizing, and generally focusing on the negative aspects of life, you may start to adopt those same attitudes and thought patterns. This can lead to a negative cognitive bias, where you are more likely to interpret events in a negative way and focus on the negative aspects of your experiences.
So how can you avoid falling into a negative cognitive bias? One way is to intentionally seek out positive information and people. For example, you could start reading positive news stories or watching feel-good videos on social media. You could also surround yourself with positive, supportive people who encourage and uplift you.
Another way to combat cognitive bias is to practice mindfulness and self-awareness. By being aware of your own biases and thought patterns, you can learn to recognize when you’re interpreting information in a negative way and consciously work to reframe your thoughts in a more positive light.
In conclusion, cognitive bias is a natural phenomenon that affects everyone to some degree. However, exposing yourself to negative information and people can exacerbate this bias, leading to a negative experience overall. By intentionally seeking out positive information and people and practicing mindfulness and self-awareness, you can combat this bias and cultivate a more positive, balanced perception of the world around you.
It’s also important to note that exposure to negative information and people can have a significant impact on one’s mental health. Studies have shown that individuals who consume a high amount of negative news are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression. Similarly, constantly being around negative people can lead to feelings of exhaustion, frustration, and even burnout.
Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health and well-being by limiting your exposure to negativity. This doesn’t mean completely avoiding all negative information and people, as that may not be possible or even desirable in some cases. Instead, it’s about finding a balance and being mindful of the impact that these factors have on your cognitive bias and overall experience.
By being intentional about the type of information you consume and the people you surround yourself with, you can create a more positive and uplifting environment for yourself. This, in turn, can help to reduce negative cognitive biases and improve your overall well-being.
Boyd Parker 