Harold believes that all Italians are warm and friendly. One day he meets Lydia, who is Italian. Harold begins talking to Lydia in a very warm and friendly manner. Lydia responds by acting in a warm and friendly way toward Harold. Which of the following has just occurred?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Harold's belief about Italians being warm and friendly led him to act in a manner that elicited a warm and friendly response from Lydia, an Italian. This is an example of a self-fulfilling prophecy, where Harold's expectations influenced his behavior in a way that brought about the expected behavior in Lydia.

Harold Believes That All Italians Are Warm and Friendly