The Pygmalion effect is a psychological phenomenon where high expectations lead to improved performance and low expectations lead to diminished performance. Named after the Greek myth, this effect suggests that individuals internalize the expectations placed upon them, influencing their performance in significant ways. Originally linked to educational settings, the Pygmalion effect emphasizes how the expectations of teachers can shape student outcomes, although it remains a topic of debate among psychologists regarding its replicability and methodology.
In a famous study by Robert Rosenthal and Lenore Jacobson, teachers were told that certain students were expected to be 'intellectual bloomers.' These students showed significant gains in IQ scores compared to their peers, highlighting how positive expectations from teachers could enhance student performance.
To combat the Pygmalion effect, it's important to maintain realistic expectations and provide all individuals with equal support and encouragement, irrespective of preconceived notions about their abilities.