Have you ever found yourself constantly worrying about bad things happening and then actually experiencing them? If so, you may be experiencing the effects of a psychological phenomenon known as the confirmation bias.
Confirmation bias is the tendency for individuals to notice, seek out, and remember information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs or expectations. This bias can lead to a number of negative consequences, including increased anxiety and stress.
One way this bias manifests is through the frequency effect, which is the idea that once a person has a belief or expectation, they are more likely to notice events or information that confirm that belief or expectation. This can cause a self-perpetuating cycle of negativity, where negative thoughts and beliefs lead to negative experiences, which in turn reinforce those negative thoughts and beliefs.
Research has shown that individuals who have a negative outlook on life are more likely to experience negative events, leading to a cycle of negative thoughts and experiences. For example, a study found that individuals who believed they were unlucky were more likely to experience negative events and report higher levels of stress and anxiety.
So, how can we break this cycle of negativity? One strategy is to focus on positive events and experiences, rather than constantly dwelling on negative possibilities. This can help to retrain our brains to notice and remember positive events, leading to a more positive outlook on life.
Another strategy is to practice mindfulness and awareness of our thoughts and beliefs. By being mindful of our thoughts, we can recognize when we are engaging in negative self-talk and actively work to reframe those thoughts in a more positive light.
Finally, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can also be a useful tool in addressing negative thought patterns and beliefs.
The frequency effect is just one manifestation of the confirmation bias, which can contribute to negative attitudes and poor mental health. By practicing mindfulness, considering different perspectives, and seeking professional help when needed, we can break the cycle of negativity and improve our overall well-being.
Are you struggling with negative thoughts? Feeling unlucky or like things just never go your way and have evidence to support it? If you'd like things to change, contact us and let's get to work building a better lens.