Goally Penguin Logo with Sunglasses

Goally

Get

Goally

What is Cognitive Bias?

Home>>Neurodiversopedia>>C Terms

Summary

summary

Cognitive bias is when our brains take shortcuts in thinking, leading to not-so-accurate judgments. It’s like our minds playing tricks on us, causing us to see things in ways that aren’t always correct or fair.

Frequently Asked Question

donut

What is cognitive bias?

Cognitive bias is an unconscious, systematic error in thinking that affects our judgments and decisions.

How does cognitive bias work?

Cognitive bias influences our thoughts and decisions based on preconceived notions, emotions, or fixed beliefs.

Can cognitive bias affect my child's daily activities?

Yes, cognitive bias can influence everyday decisions, like what to eat or what games to play, based on preferences or preconceived notions.

How does Goally help combat cognitive bias?

Goally’s interactive activities help children recognize and understand cognitive biases, turning these brain hiccups into learning opportunities.

Why is understanding cognitive bias significant for my child's development?

Understanding cognitive bias helps children make better decisions, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their problem-solving skills.

Scientific Definition

scientist

Cognitive bias refers to systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment. These biases stem from the brain’s attempt to simplify information processing through heuristics, often resulting in distortions of perception, inaccurate judgments, or illogical interpretations. Cognitive biases can significantly impact decision-making processes and social interactions.

 

Resources:

Real World Example of Cognitive Bias

Meet Sam, a 10-year-old with autism who loves puzzles. Sam’s parents believe he struggles with all academic tasks. One day, Sam’s teacher mentions he excels at spatial reasoning, but his parents dismiss this information, focusing only on his difficulties. This is an example of confirmation bias:

  • The situation: Sam shows a talent for spatial tasks in class.
  • Parent’s reaction: They overlook this strength, remembering only struggles.
  • The bias at work: Parents’ existing belief filters new information.
  • The impact: Sam misses chances to develop his spatial skills.
  • The lesson: Recognizing biases helps parents see their child’s full potential.

This story shows how cognitive bias can shape perceptions and decisions, potentially limiting a child’s opportunities for growth and development.

How Does Cognitive Bias Work?

Cognitive bias influences how kids with special needs process information and make decisions. Here’s a quick look at how it plays out:

  • Shapes perceptions: Kids might see situations through a distorted lens.
  • Affects decision-making: Can lead to choices based on faulty reasoning.
  • Impacts social interactions: May cause misinterpretations of others’ actions or words.
  • Influences self-image: Can reinforce negative or overly positive self-perceptions.
  • Guides behavior: Might lead to actions based on skewed understanding of situations.
Bias Effect Parent Strategy
Negative self-talk Encourage balanced thinking
Overgeneralization Help identify specific examples
All-or-nothing thinking Teach about shades of gray

Understanding these biases helps parents guide their kids towards more balanced thinking and decision-making.

 

This post was originally published on July 21, 2023. It was updated on July 25, 2024.