Horn Effect

Definition: the Horn Effect is a type of cognitive bias - more specifically confirmation bias - that causes one's perception of another person to be unduly influenced by a single negative trait.
We tend to make negative judgements and assumptions about individuals by attributing it to a specific negative aspect of their trait, personality or appearance.
However, an initial negative impression of a colleague or a superior should obviously not be generalized by considering it to be their sole feature.
The inability to see 'beyond the horns' results in prejudice formation, favouritism and inequality in the workplace.

Learn more about the horn effect

More on individual decision making: Anchoring Bias, Bayesian Theory, Black Swan Theory, Bounded Rationality, Cognitive Bias, more...

MBA Brief offers accurate and concise definitions of MBA concepts, frameworks, methods and models.

We love to keep things really short, but provide links to learn more about your subject and to similar concepts.