What might be an effect of cognitive biases on relationships?

Cognitive biases can significantly influence interpersonal relationships by distorting perceptions and judgments. When individuals are affected by cognitive biases, they may interpret words, actions, and intentions in ways that do not align with reality. For example, a person might be overly critical of their partner due to confirmation bias, focusing only on negative actions while ignoring positive ones. This can lead to misunderstandings, where one partner feels undervalued or attacked, resulting in conflicts.

Moreover, biases such as the fundamental attribution error can lead individuals to attribute their partner's actions to their character rather than considering situational factors. This further complicates communication and fosters resentment or anger, which are detrimental to healthy relationships. Understanding how cognitive biases operate can illuminate why conflicts arise and highlight the importance of striving for objectivity in interactions to foster more harmonious connections.