You have heard that Dean X has a reputation for being very arrogant and condescending to students. One day your professor sends you to see the Dean to discuss an important educational issue. You are quite apprehensive when you enter the Dean's office and act very nervous and anxious. Since Dean X does not suffer fools, he snaps at you, thus
Confirming the _ that you evoked.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct term is "expectancy confirmations," which refers to situations where people's initial expectations lead to behaviors that cause those expectations to come true, thus confirming the original expectation. In this scenario, your nervous behavior based on the expectation of the Dean being arrogant may have prompted his snapping, confirming your expectation.

You Have Heard That Dean X Has a Reputation for Being