2023-06-29 07:00:34
The “Benjamin Franklin Effect” is quite simple and can be applied in many situations.
© Getty Images/Hinterhaus Productions
Who wants to be liked by everyone? Still, it doesn’t hurt to use a few psychological tactics every now and then – and when the worst comes to the worst, win people over to your side.
The Benjamin Franklin Effect describes a psychological phenomenon according to which we find people more likeable who we have done a favor for. This effect actually got its name from the writer, inventor and statesman of the same name, who allegedly liked to use the tactic to get people on his side.
How do I apply the effect?
You can take advantage of the psychological effect in many different situations – for example when dating or at work. In reality, it might look like this: You ask your date if he/she can hold your bag for a moment so you can tie your shoe. Or you ask a colleague for advice on a professional question. You will see – no one will reject you, quite the opposite. The small request will have a positive effect on your togetherness. But why is it like that? This is shown by numerous studies on this topic.
Different studies have dealt with this phenomenon. For example, one showed small study, with participants from the United States and Japanthat the person who is asked for help can sense that the person seeking help is well-disposed towards them, possibly even in a friendly mood – and is therefore happy to reciprocate the positive feelings. We then speak of “reciprocal affection”: the tendency to like people who like us. Small mutual favors can basically lead to us making friends – or just liking each other!
Another study sees the reason for the phenomenon in the so-called cognitive dissonance. So it is difficult for people to do someone a favor and hate that person. Our harmony-addicted brain cannot reconcile the two disparate mental events of doing someone a favor and disliking that person. So it then chooses to like the person to eliminate the dissonance.
It’s clear what that means: You should simply ask other people for favors more often instead of trying to take care of everything on your own. It almost pays off twice!
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