What is the term for the phenomenon where people's social expectations lead them to behave in ways that fulfill those expectations?

The phenomenon where people's social expectations lead them to behave in ways that fulfill those expectations is known as a self-fulfilling prophecy. In this context, when an individual or group holds certain expectations about a person, those expectations can influence that person's behavior, ultimately causing the expectations to come true.

For example, if a teacher believes that a particular student is gifted, the teacher may provide that student with more attention and resources. As a result, the student may perform better academically, thereby reinforcing the teacher's initial expectation of the student's capabilities. This dynamic illustrates how expectations can shape interactions and outcomes.

Behavioral confirmation refers specifically to a process where an individual's expectations about another influence their own behavior towards that person, which may, in turn, confirm the original expectations. Social conformity involves individuals changing their behavior or beliefs to match those of a group, while attitudinal bias refers to a systematic tendency to favor certain attitudes over others, rather than a change in behavior based on expectation. Understanding self-fulfilling prophecies is vital in areas such as education, psychology, and interpersonal relationships, highlighting the power of beliefs in shaping behavior and outcomes.