The Concept of Illusory Correlations in Psychology
During the course of our lives, we perceive various occurrences around us, and form opinions about them. These opinions may be based on the truth but many times, they are assumptions that are found to be baseless. This is because our mind always seeks connections, whether they exist or not. This phenomenon is known as an illusory correlation, and is elucidated in this Buzzle article.
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Experimental Proof
In 1996, Redelmeier and Tversky assessed 18 arthritis patients over a period of 15 months. Almost all patients believed that their condition was related to the weather, when in fact, no correlation existed.
An illusory correlation is the perception of connections and links between two variables, even when none exist. The term was coined by Chapman and Chapman in 1967, to explain the tendency of people to establish relationships based on unusual and insufficient information. This concept was put forth and used by the Chapmans to refute the practice of using Wheeler signs for homosexuality in conjugation with the Rorschach inkblot tests.
It is the tendency of the brain to assume relationships when the events are unusual, or when there is insufficient information available about the variables. It is the primary reason behind the formation of misconceptions, prejudices, bias, superstitions, and stereotypes. These faulty assumptions are then sustained by the brain by finding relevant supportive examples in daily life, while actively ignoring all the contradictory examples.
Theories on Illusory Correlations
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/the-concept-of-illusory-correlations-in-psychology.html