Pratfall effect

#pratfalleffect #psychologicaleffects
Based on: https://www.brescia.edu/2017/06/pratf...
Image source: https://freepngimg.com/png/157240-fac...

Transcript:
Hey today we will talk about the Pratfall effect. It's a psychological concept that highlights how individuals become more likable after making a mistake or appearing vulnerable. It suggests that imperfections can increase attractiveness and relatability. The term pratfall effect was introduced by the social psychologist Elliot Aronson in 1966. So this is the study set up he enlisted 48 subjects divided in 4 groups. Each group was asked to listen to a recording of one of these 4 people answering trivia questions.

A superior person answering questions
An average person answering questions
A superior person answering questions and committing a pratfall
An average person answering questions and committing a pratfall

The so-called superior person always gets 92% of the questions right and the average person 30%. The research showed that those people considered superior were found to be more likable if they had committed a blunder. However, Aronson also discovered that the likeability of average people decreased upon committing the same blunder. So it's important to note the pratfall effect is contextual. Not just intelligence like in this case but also things like cultures and gender could play a role in how people interpret a blunder.
But why does the pratfall effect work, let's look at the famous celebrity pratfall. Jennifer Lawrence tripping at the Oscars and falling. So first of all it humanizes individuals. It demonstrates vulnerability and relatability. It gives that idea oh stars they are just like us.
It challenges the perception of perfection and encourages authenticity. It’s one of the things I thought when I saw Jennifer Lawrence trip. It’s was like finally, I don't understand how other celebrities in huge dresses and high heels dont trip.
Finally it creates empathy so others empathize with the person's humanity.