Similar-To-Me Bias, also known as the like-me bias, is a cognitive bias that affects how people perceive and interact with others. This bias occurs when individuals prefer and trust others who are similar to them in terms of background, ethnicity, nationality, race, religion, gender, age, education, or any other characteristics. This bias can be both conscious and unconscious, and it can influence people's decisions and behaviors in various situations. One key aspect of Similar-To-Me Bias is that it can lead to a sense of familiarity and comfort with people who are similar to oneself. This can result in people feeling more at ease and more willing to engage with those who share their characteristics. However, this bias can also lead to discrimination and exclusion of those who are perceived as different or outside of one's group. For example, people may be less likely to hire or promote someone who does not share their characteristics, even if that person is highly qualified. Another important aspect of Similar-To-Me Bias is that it can be influenced by various factors, including social norms, personal experiences, and media representation. For example, if a particular group is consistently portrayed in a negative light in the media, people may be more likely to hold negative stereotypes about that group and be less likely to trust or engage with them. Overall, Similar-To-Me Bias is a complex phenomenon that can have both positive and negative effects on how people interact with each other. Recognizing and addressing this bias can help individuals and organizations create more inclusive and diverse environments.
cognitive bias, discrimination, familiarity, inclusion, stereotypes
Similar-To-Me Bias is a cognitive bias where people tend to prefer, trust and be more generous towards others who are similar to them in terms of background, ethnicity, nationality, race, religion, gender, age, education or any other characteristics. This phenomenon is often used to explain why people tend to favor certain groups over others. For example, people may be more likely to give money to someone who looks like them or shares their beliefs. This bias can be further exacerbated when people are in positions of authority, as they may be more likely to make decisions that favor their own group.
Similar-To-Me Bias, Prejudice, Discrimination, Stereotyping.
CITATION : "Jessica Adams. 'Similar-To-Me Bias.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=213807 (Accessed on August 02, 2025)"
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