Whether we want it or not, we often succumb to first impressions, even if we know that they can be misleading and harmful. It seems to us that at first glance we are able to assess not only the character, but also the origin and even the wealth of another person. from the University of Glasgow decided to look at this issue. They checked what makes people consider another person rich.
Scientists checked stereotypes. The conclusions may be surprising
Can you tell the thickness of the wallet? Can you tell at first glance that someone comes from a higher social class? Scientists conducted research in which they tried to find out what influences such harmful stereotypes and what makes someone “look rich or poor”. They published their results in the APA Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. The experiment involved white participants from Western culture. Based on facial features, they were supposed to judge whether someone came from a high or low social class.
These faces are considered “rich”. It’s all because of stereotypes
It turned out that faces perceived as “poor” by those taking part in the study showed a number of specific features:
- wide, short and flatter faces,
- lowered corners of the mouth,
- darker and cooler complexion.
Study participants reported that such people seemed incompetent, cold, or untrustworthy. In turn, what they perceived as “rich” were much narrower and longer, with upturned corners of the mouth, high eyebrows, and a lighter and warmer complexion. These features, according to the respondents, were synonymous with warmth, credibility and having appropriate competences. Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos, both with a narrow and lighter face, were given as examples.
Scientists emphasized that such stereotypes are misleading, distort our perception of other people, and, above all, harm others. They often cause serious consequences, especially when looking for a new employee or partner.
Such judgments are often formed based on facial appearance, which can have important consequences in life. […] The conclusions of the study suggest that stereotypes regarding social classes explain the relationship between facial appearance and the assessment of an individual’s position in a given social class. This also emphasizes that stereotypes influence and distort how we perceive others.
– emphasizes one of the authors of the study, Dr. R. Thora Bjornsdottir.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
