In a finding that could offer a simple yet powerful tool for millions, new psychological research suggests that forming fixed first impressions of people may be a key to reducing social anxiety. The study, led by Professor Mark Baldwin at McGill University in Canada, challenges the common advice to remain open-minded in social situations, proposing instead that firm, initial judgments can create a sense of predictability and safety.
The Science Behind Fixed Impressions and Anxiety
The research, recently published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, delves into the cognitive processes of individuals with social anxiety disorder. People suffering from this condition often experience intense fear of negative evaluation in social interactions, leading to avoidance and distress. Professor Baldwin's team discovered that those who form a stable, initial impression of someone—whether positive or negative—experience less anxiety during subsequent interactions with that person compared to those who keep their judgments fluid and open to change.
The core mechanism is rooted in the need for predictability. Socially anxious individuals are hyper-vigilant to potential social threats. When an impression of another person is left unresolved or constantly re-evaluated, it creates a state of uncertainty. This uncertainty fuels anxiety, as the brain remains on high alert for new, possibly negative, social information. A fixed impression, however, acts as a cognitive anchor. It provides a clear, stable mental model of what to expect from the other person, thereby reducing the cognitive load and emotional turbulence associated with constant re-assessment.
Rethinking "Open-Mindedness" in Social Contexts
This finding presents a fascinating paradox. While open-mindedness is generally celebrated as a virtue in personal development and relationships, the study indicates it might be counterproductive for those grappling with social anxiety. "For people with social anxiety, the advice to be open-minded can actually backfire," explains Professor Baldwin. Keeping one's judgment in a perpetual state of flux forces the anxious mind to continuously scan for new data, reinforcing the cycle of worry and self-doubt.
The research does not advocate for harsh or unfair snap judgments. Instead, it highlights the therapeutic value of decisiveness in social perception. By consciously deciding on a clear impression early on—for example, "This person seems kind and approachable" or "This colleague is reserved but professional"—an individual can create a psychological safe zone. This defined expectation makes social encounters feel more manageable and less threatening.
Implications for Therapy and Everyday Life
The implications of this research are significant for cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other treatments for social anxiety. Therapists might integrate this insight by helping clients practice forming constructive, fixed initial impressions as a coping strategy. This technique could be used alongside traditional methods like exposure therapy and cognitive restructuring.
For the general public, the study offers a practical self-help tip. If you find yourself feeling overly anxious in repeated interactions with certain people, try to consciously settle on a definitive view of them after your first few meetings. The stability of this impression may prevent the anxiety spiral that comes from over-analysing every word and gesture in future encounters.
It is important to note that the research focuses on the internal cognitive benefit for the anxious individual. The authors clarify that this is not a license to be rigid or unjust. The goal is to alleviate personal distress, not to promote prejudice. The fixed impression can and should be updated if compelling contradictory evidence emerges, but the default state for the anxious mind benefits from clarity over ambiguity.
This study opens a new avenue in understanding the intricate link between social cognition and emotional well-being, providing a simple, evidence-based strategy that could help many navigate the complexities of social life with greater ease and confidence.
