Overgeneralization

Overgeneralization occurs when someone makes broad conclusions based on limited evidence or a single experience. For example, after failing at one task, a person might think they will always fail at everything, or if they have a negative interaction with one individual, they believe everyone else will behave the same way. This tendency can distort reality, leading to unfair or inaccurate beliefs about situations or people. Recognizing overgeneralization is important for developing more balanced thinking, as it encourages evaluating each situation on its own merits rather than relying on initial, often incomplete, judgments.