Who Invented the Pratfall Effect?

Psychologist Elliot Aronson

Elliot Aronson
Elliot Aronson (born January 9, 1932) is an American psychologist who has carried out experiments on the theory of cognitive dissonance, and invented the Jigsaw Classroom, a cooperative teaching technique which facilitates learning while reducing interethnic hostility and prejudice.
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discovered the bias known as the Pratfall effect.

What is a pratfall person?

1 : a fall on the buttocks. 2 : a humiliating mishap or blunder.

When we watch someone make a mistake this tends to make them more likeable?

In social psychology, the pratfall effect is the tendency for interpersonal appeal to change after an individual makes a mistake, depending on the individual's perceived competence.

Chloe Bennett

Chloe Bennett

Culture, Media & Entertainment Columnist

Chloe Bennett explores the intersection of pop culture, streaming entertainment, digital trends, and contemporary lifestyle. Her weekly commentary reaches thousands of culture enthusiasts.