Which bias involves evaluating ourselves in an overly favorable manner?

Study for the AMSCO AP Psychology – Cognitive Psychology Test. Dive into flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The self-serving bias is the tendency for individuals to attribute positive events to their own character or efforts while attributing negative events to external factors or circumstances. This bias leads people to see themselves in an overly favorable light, enhancing their self-esteem and self-worth. For example, if a student receives a high grade on a test, they might credit their intelligence or hard work, but if they receive a low grade, they may attribute it to the difficulty of the test or an unfair grading system. This cognitive bias helps individuals protect their self-image and maintain a positive internal narrative.

In contrast, the other options represent different psychological phenomena: mental set refers to a fixed way of thinking that may prevent problem-solving; framing pertains to how information is presented that influences decision-making; and belief perseverance involves holding onto one's beliefs even when faced with contrary evidence. Each of these concepts operates differently from the self-serving bias, which is specific to self-evaluation and self-perception.

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