What describes a situation where expectations lead someone to perform in ways consistent with those expectations?

The concept of a self-fulfilling prophecy emphasizes that individuals often act in ways that align with the expectations set for them, particularly in social or organizational contexts. This phenomenon occurs when an expectation about a person or situation influences the behavior of that person or others, ultimately leading to outcomes that confirm the original expectation.

For instance, if a manager believes that an employee is highly capable, they may provide more support and opportunities for that employee, which can boost the employee's confidence and performance, thereby fulfilling the manager's initial expectation. Conversely, if an expectation is negative, it might hinder performance and create a cycle that reinforces the belief.

The self-fulfilling prophecy illustrates the power of perception and belief in shaping behaviors and can significantly impact motivation, performance, and interpersonal dynamics in various settings.