The Pygmalion effect is a psychological phenomenon that has been the subject of study and interest in the field of psychology for decades. This effect refers to the influence that one person's expectations have on the performance and behavior of another. In other words, our beliefs about others can influence their performance significantly. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial to understanding how our perceptions and attitudes can impact the development and success of others.
Origin of the Pygmalion Effect
The term "Pygmalion effect" originates in Greek mythology, referring to a sculptor named Pygmalion who falls in love with one of his creations, an ivory statue with which he establishes a relationship so intense that he manages to This one comes to life. In the psychological field, the Pygmalion effect was popularized by psychologist Robert Rosenthal in the 1960s through his research on teacher expectations and student performance in education.
Development Theory
Rosenthal and her colleague, Lenore Jacobson, conducted an experiment in an elementary school in which they falsely informed teachers that an aptitude test had identified certain students as "students with great intellectual potential." Throughout the school year, researchers found that these students identified as "higher potential" showed greater academic progress compared to their peers. The interesting thing is that the only real difference lay in the expectations that teachers had for these students, which showed the impact of expectations on student performance.
Mechanisms of the Pygmalion effect
To understand how the Pygmalion effect works, it is important to take into account four keys that underlie this phenomenon:
1. Positive and negative expectations
The expectations we have about others can be both positive and negative. When we believe in someone's potential and success, we are more likely to act in ways that foster their development and performance. On the contrary, if our expectations are negative, we are likely to transmit attitudes that limit the other person's ability to reach their full potential.
2. Nonverbal communication
Our nonverbal communication, such as gestures, facial expressions, and tone of voice, can unconsciously convey our expectations toward others. Even without saying a word, our attitudes can be perceived and assimilated by those who receive them, which can influence their self-esteem and self-confidence.
3. Self-fulfilling prophecy
The Pygmalion effect is closely related to the concept of self-fulfilling prophecy, in which the expectations we have about a person affect our behavior towards them, which in turn influences the person's behavior in accordance with those expectations. That is, our beliefs can influence reality so that they come true, both positively and negatively.
4. Positive and negative reinforcement
Positive and negative reinforcement play an important role in the Pygmalion effect. When we express praise and recognition towards someone, we are reinforcing their self-esteem and motivation, which can enhance their performance. On the contrary, criticism and disapproval can generate insecurity and demotivation, limiting the person's development and confirming our negative expectations.
Implications of the Pygmalion effect
The Pygmalion effect has important implications in various areas of life, from educational to work and personal. Some of the most relevant implications include:
In the educational field
In the educational context, teachers' expectations can influence the academic performance of students. When teachers have high expectations about their students' potential, they tend to work harder and achieve more. On the other hand, low expectations can limit the academic development and success of students, generating a detrimental effect on their self-concept and motivation.
In the work environment
In the work environment , the Pygmalion effect can be observed in the relationship between leaders and collaborators. Supervisors who have high expectations for their subordinates' performance tend to provide them with more opportunities for growth and development, which contributes to their job satisfaction and performance. On the contrary, negative expectations from leaders can demotivate employees and generate an unfavorable work environment.
In personal relationships
In personal relationships, the expectations we have on our loved ones can influence their self-esteem and emotional well-being. The support, trust and appreciation we express to our partners, friends and family can strengthen their abilities and self-confidence, contributing to a more positive and healthy relationship. On the contrary, constant criticism and negative expectations can undermine the other person's self-esteem and self-efficacy, negatively affecting relational dynamics.
Conclusion
In summary, the Pygmalion effect It demonstrates the power of our expectations and beliefs about others in their performance and development. Understanding this phenomenon gives us the opportunity to reflect on our attitudes and behaviors towards others, allowing us to foster an environment of support, trust and mutual growth. By being aware of the keys underlying the Pygmalion effect, we can harness its potential to positively impact the people around us and promote their success and well-being.