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self-fulfilling prophecy

From: The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition | Date: 2008

self-fulfilling prophecy a concept developed by Robert K. Merton to explain how a belief or expectation, whether correct or not, affects the outcome of a situation or the way a person (or group) will behave. Thus, for example, labeling someone a "criminal," and treating that person as such, may foster criminal behavior in the person who is subjected to the expectation.

Author not available, SELF-FULFILLING PROPHECY., The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition 2008

The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Copyright 2008 Columbia University Press

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