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perception
You judge people by your own hidden assumptions.
The trait-inference task demonstrates that you spontaneously label others with personality traits within milliseconds of seeing a face.
A 2006 study showed that observers form stable character judgments from facial structure even when they know the data is invalid. These snap judgments occur before conscious thought takes over, suggesting a hard-wired system for social categorization.
Your first impression is an automated script running behind your own back.
Where this comes from
- Study
- Willis & Todorov, 2006, Psychological Science
- What the check found
- Willis & Todorov (2006) confirms that trait judgments are formed and stabilize within a 100ms window, mirroring those made with unlimited time.
- Confidence
- Well replicated
Related
One of these every day, and every one names the study it came from. When a finding is contested, it says so.