The Power of Expectations | Invisibilia | NPR

Recent questions

• How can expectations influence behavior?

  Expectations can significantly impact behavior, as seen in research where rats labeled as smart or dumb performed according to those expectations. Psychologist Carol Dweck also highlighted how teacher expectations can affect student IQ scores, a mother's expectations can influence a middle-schooler's drinking behavior, and military trainers' expectations can impact a soldier's speed. These examples demonstrate the pervasive influence of expectations on various aspects of life, showcasing how beliefs about abilities can shape outcomes.

• Can expectations affect academic performance?

  Yes, expectations can affect academic performance. Research has shown that teacher expectations can influence student IQ scores. When teachers have high expectations for their students, they tend to perform better academically. Conversely, low expectations can lead to poorer academic outcomes. This highlights the importance of setting positive and high expectations for students to enhance their academic performance.

• Do expectations impact parenting behavior?

  Expectations can indeed impact parenting behavior. Psychologist Carol Dweck's research showed that a mother's expectations can influence a middle-schooler's drinking behavior. This suggests that parents' beliefs and expectations about their children's behavior can shape how they act and make decisions. By having positive and supportive expectations, parents can potentially influence their children's behavior in a positive way.

• How do expectations influence performance in the military?

  Expectations play a crucial role in military performance. Military trainers' expectations can impact a soldier's speed and overall performance. When trainers have high expectations for their soldiers, they may push them to excel and perform at their best. Conversely, low expectations can lead to decreased performance. This underscores the importance of setting high standards and positive expectations in military training to enhance performance outcomes.

• Can expectations affect self-perception?

  Yes, expectations can influence self-perception. Research has shown that when individuals are labeled or categorized in a certain way, they may start to internalize those expectations and behave accordingly. For example, in the rat experiment conducted by Bob Rosenthal, the rats performed according to the expectations set by the experimenters. This suggests that expectations can shape how individuals perceive themselves and behave in alignment with those expectations.