Human beings are built to size each other up quickly. These first impressions are influenced by a number of factors, such as facial shape, vocal inflection, attractiveness , and general emotional state. People tend to get attached to their initial impressions of others and find it very difficult to change their opinion, even when presented with lots of evidence to the contrary.
What Is First Impressions? (Plain Language Explanation)
First Impressions refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About First Impressions
- Symptoms: The specific ways first impressions shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen first impressions
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When first impressions occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About First Impressions
- First Impressions is far more common than most people realize
- First Impressions is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with first impressions see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about first impressions is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing first impressions, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.