Social caution

 

• We often overestimate how strongly others feel about events, feedback, or our actions.
• This happens because we project our own emotions and imagine others experiencing them just as intensely.
• Limited access to others’ inner thoughts makes us rely on visible cues, which tend to exaggerate emotion.
• Overestimation leads to greater empathy—we act more carefully and kindly than if we assumed neutrality.
• It encourages social caution, reducing the risk of hurting, offending, or dismissing others.
• In relationships, it can promote emotional support and responsiveness, even when it’s not strictly necessary.
• The bias helps maintain social harmony by nudging us toward compassion rather than indifference.
• While it can cause unnecessary worry or self-consciousness, overall it strengthens cooperation and trust.