Pygmalion Effect Pronunciation: /pɪɡˈmeɪl.i.ən ɪˈfɛkt/ (pig-MAY-lee-uhn ih-FEKT) Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A psychological phenomenon in which higher expectations from others lead to improved performance in individuals. When people are treated as if they are capable or intelligent, they are more likely to act accordingly and achieve higher results. This concept is named after the mythological sculptor Pygmalion and popularized by a study showing that students perform better when teachers expect more from them.
Example: Students often excel when teachers demonstrate belief in their potential, illustrating the Pygmalion Effect.