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
The spotlight effect is a psychological phenomenon where people tend to believe they are being noticed more than they really are. It's the feeling that everyone is watching and judging your every move.
Related terms
Self-consciousness: An acute awareness of oneself, often leading to feelings of discomfort or embarrassment when one believes they're being watched or judged.
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): A chronic mental health condition characterized by significant anxiety, fear, self-consciousness and embarrassment because of everyday social situations.
Illusion of Transparency: The tendency for individuals to overestimate the degree to which their personal mental state is known by others.