Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Overconfidence refers to the tendency of an individual to overestimate their abilities and knowledge, leading them to make decisions without considering potential risks or negative outcomes.
Related terms
Self-serving bias: This is a cognitive bias where individuals attribute positive events to their own character but attribute negative events to external factors. It's like taking credit for winning a group project but blaming your teammates when things go wrong.
Dunning-Kruger effect: This psychological phenomenon occurs when people with low ability at a task overestimate their ability. It's like thinking you're an expert chef after successfully making instant noodles.
Illusory superiority: This is a cognitive bias whereby individuals overestimate their own qualities and abilities, compared to others. It's like believing you're the best singer in your choir, even though everyone hits the same notes as well as you do.