
Boomerang effect
The Boomerang effect occurs when an attempt to persuade someone results in the opposite outcome than intended. Instead of adopting the desired viewpoint or behavior, the person strengthening their original position or resisting change. This can happen if the message comes across as too forceful, threatening, or if the person feels misunderstood. Essentially, the persuasion backfires, making the individual more entrenched in their beliefs. It highlights the importance of careful messaging and understanding the audience to avoid reinforcing resistance instead of reducing it.