Lay Theories

Lay theories are informal explanations and beliefs that people hold about how the world works, often based on personal experiences or observations. These theories help individuals make sense of complex information, such as human behavior, social interactions, or even natural phenomena. For example, someone might believe that "practice makes perfect" when it comes to learning a skill. While lay theories can provide useful insights, they are not always scientifically accurate and may vary widely between cultures and individuals. They reflect common understandings that guide everyday thinking and decision-making.