Bandwagon Effect

The bandwagon effect is what often causes behaviors and social norms to propagate among groups of individuals — regardless of the evidence or motives in support.  It is what allows us to “go with the flow” even when our rational mind is screaming, “Don’t do it!”

At this time of year we seem to be more vulnerable to this “groupthink”.  There is no research present here to support this statement yet it makes sense at so many levels.  The extra pressures of the holiday season, the “cashing in” by scammers in order to take advantage of people during festive times, and the belief that “goodness” reigns during this time of year.

People who have issues with addictions are especially vulnerable.  Just one more serving of sweets won’t hurt, just one more drink before we leave or just one more purchase on that credit card.  We will deal with it later, everyone is doing this so it must be alright.  What a wonderful bandwagon to be on!  All the while our rational brain is screaming, “Don’t do it!”  We deny, justify and ignore.

Then it comes time to “pay the piper”.  UGH!  Now what do we do?  Cost overruns to manage and pressures increase.  What have I done?  Now our rational mind is hammering us with “Look what you did!  How could you?  How do we fix this?”  OUCH!

So will you make healthy choices or will you get on the bandwagon?  Think about it rationally as opposed to emotionally.  Your peace of mind depends on it!

“The bandwagon of being seduced into actions of self-harm are the most deceptive of all.”  — Anonymous