The Pygmalion Effect is a psychological concept that explains the tendency of individuals to conform to the expectations placed upon them. In other words, when positive or negative expectations are formed about an individual, these expectations can influence their performance and behavior, eventually becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy. Positive expectations can bring out an individual’s potential, while negative expectations can lead to a decline in performance.
Origins and Theoretical Foundations
The Pygmalion Effect derives its name from the Greek myth of Pygmalion. According to the myth, Pygmalion, a sculptor from Cyprus, falls in love with a statue he created, which he believed embodied ideal beauty. The goddess Aphrodite, moved by Pygmalion’s strong belief, brings the statue to life. This myth has been used as a metaphor in social psychology to explain how individuals can internalize and actualize expectations about themselves or others.
Scientifically, the Pygmalion Effect was first conceptualized through the experiments conducted by Rosenthal and Jacobson (1968). The researchers informed teachers in an elementary school that certain students (who had been randomly selected) had great academic potential. By the end of the academic year, it was observed that these students showed an increase in academic achievement. This study, which demonstrated that teachers’ positive expectations directly influenced the students' actual performance, had a significant impact in the field of education.
The core of the Pygmalion Effect lies in the way people, either consciously or unconsciously, shape their perceptions and behaviors in accordance with the expectations of those around them. An analysis by Oppidan Education highlights that expectations influence not only education but also success in the workplace and personal development processes. In particular, high expectations from leaders and educators play a crucial role in boosting individuals’ performance.
The Mechanism of the Pygmalion Effect
The Pygmalion Effect operates through a four-stage process. In the first stage, an expectation is formed about an individual. The person holding this expectation alters their attitudes and behaviors towards the other individual, either consciously or unconsciously, to confirm the expectation. The individual who is subjected to these expectations perceives and internalizes these attitudes over time. Their perception of their own abilities is shaped by the expectations they have encountered. In the final stage, the individual changes their behavior to align with the newly internalized expectations, and the external expectation becomes their reality.
This mechanism is applicable not only for positive expectations but also for negative ones. Individuals subjected to negative expectations may feel inadequate and fail to realize their potential. This reverse process is referred to as the “Golem Effect.”
Applications
One of the most studied areas of the Pygmalion Effect is education. Teachers’ expectations about their students can directly influence students' academic achievements, motivation, and self-confidence. According to an article published by Oppidan Education, teachers with high expectations may offer more complex and challenging content to students and show them more attention. Positive attitudes and feedback towards students are considered some of the most important factors in enhancing their academic success.
In the business world, the expectations that managers hold for their employees can directly affect motivation and performance. Positive expectations from leaders can encourage employees to take on more responsibility, work with greater confidence, and generate creative solutions. Therefore, it is critical for effective leaders to form positive expectations to maximize their employees’ potential.
In the fields of psychology and personal development, the Pygmalion Effect is also of great importance. Individuals' expectations about themselves can influence their self-efficacy and motivation to succeed. Individuals who believe in their own success tend to be more determined and resilient in achieving their goals. In this context, developing positive expectations towards oneself can enhance success in both academic and professional life.
Criticisms and Alternative Views
Some research on the Pygmalion Effect suggests that this effect is not universally applicable. Jussim and Harber (2005) proposed that certain preconditions (such as having sufficient self-confidence or low external pressure) are necessary for expectations to influence performance effectively.
Furthermore, it has been suggested that expectations do not always result in uncovering an individual’s potential and may sometimes turn into a source of stress. For example, excessively high expectations can create unnecessary pressure, leading to performance anxiety. In this situation, individuals may experience a decline in performance due to stress and anxiety rather than realizing their potential.
The “Golem Effect,” in which negative expectations reduce an individual’s performance, is the reverse version of this process. Negative expectations, particularly in education and the workplace, have been observed to damage individuals’ self-confidence and diminish their motivation to succeed.
The Pygmalion Effect is a powerful psychological phenomenon that explains how individuals tend to act in accordance with the expectations placed upon them. It has significant effects in various fields such as education, business, and personal development. However, it should be noted that this effect does not always occur, and factors such as an individual’s self-awareness can also play a determining role in the process. While positive expectations can bring out an individual’s potential, negative expectations may hinder their performance.
