What is a self-fulfilling prophecy?

A self-fulfilling prophecy is defined as a belief or expectation that influences a person's behavior in such a way that the belief itself ultimately manifests as reality. When individuals hold a particular belief or expectation, their actions and interactions can subconsciously align to fulfill that belief.

For instance, if a teacher believes that a particular student is not capable of performing well academically, they may unconsciously interact with that student in a way that diminishes the student's confidence or opportunities. Conversely, if the teacher believes in the student's potential and provides encouragement, the student may rise to meet those expectations.

This concept illustrates how expectations can influence outcomes, reinforcing the idea that beliefs can indeed shape reality.