What term refers to the cognitive bias that leads individuals to favor information that confirms their existing beliefs?

The term that refers to the cognitive bias where individuals favor information that supports their pre-existing beliefs is known as confirmation bias. This bias manifests when people selectively gather or interpret evidence in a way that reinforces their existing viewpoints, often ignoring or dismissing contrary information. Confirmation bias can significantly impact decision-making and critical thinking, as it leads individuals to maintain their beliefs even in the face of contradictory evidence, ultimately limiting their ability to engage with new data or perspectives.

For instance, in discussions or debates, individuals exhibiting confirmation bias may focus on facts or arguments that validate their stance while disregarding those that challenge it, further entrenching their beliefs. Understanding confirmation bias is essential in social psychology as it sheds light on how and why individuals may adhere to misconceptions or resist changing their opinions despite the availability of new and reliable information.