Psychology MCAT Practice Exam 2025 – Complete All-in-One Guide to Ensure Your Success!

The tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms one's existing beliefs is known as confirmation bias. This cognitive phenomenon occurs when individuals favor information that aligns with their preconceptions while disregarding or minimizing information that contradicts those beliefs. Confirmation bias can greatly influence decision-making and opinion formation, leading individuals to reinforce their views rather than critically assess the validity of all available information.

Understanding this concept is crucial in fields such as psychology, as it highlights the challenges in achieving objectivity and the importance of being aware of one’s cognitive biases when evaluating evidence or arguments. This tendency is particularly significant in various contexts, including scientific research, political views, and personal relationships, where preexisting beliefs can shape perceptions and judgments substantially.