Reflections & Studies
This page collects short reflections inspired by research, studies, and everyday observations about human behavior and communication. Each piece connects what I learn to broader questions about how we think, feel, and relate to one another.
Everyday Psychology: Small Studies of Human Nature
The Halo Effect: Why We Trust Attractive People
Research shows that people tend to assume someone’s personality based on their appearance — a bias known as the halo effect. It’s a subtle reminder of how quickly we form impressions without realizing it, and how slowing down our judgments can help us see others with more fairness and clarity.
The Spotlight Effect: Overthinking How We’re Perceived
Studies show most people overestimate how much others notice their mistakes or appearance. This concept, called the spotlight effect, reminds me that others are usually too focused on their own thoughts to judge us as much as we imagine. There’s quiet freedom in that realization.
Emotional Contagion: When Feelings Are Shared Without Words
Research on emotional contagion shows that we can “catch” someone’s mood just by being around them. It’s a powerful reminder that empathy isn’t just emotional — it’s something we communicate through presence, tone, and energy. The way we show up can quietly shape the spaces we’re in.