Context effect
What is the context effect?
The context effect refers to the phenomenon whereby the context in which information is presented affects how that information is perceived and interpreted. Depending on environmental factors or the situation in which the information is presented, people may adjust their judgment or perception.
How does the context effect work?
The context effect works because our interpretation of information is highly dependent on surrounding cues and circumstances. The same information can be understood or appreciated differently depending on the context in which it is seen, heard or experienced.
An example of the context effect
A simple sentence such as "The man hit the dog" can be interpreted very differently depending on the context. If the context is violence, the sentence will be viewed negatively. But if the context is self-defense against an aggressive dog, the same action may be seen as justified.
