What bias involves focusing on one aspect of a person’s character to determine their overall evaluation?

The correct answer involves the concept known as anchoring bias. This bias occurs when an individual relies heavily on the first piece of information encountered (the "anchor") when making decisions or evaluations. In the context of evaluating a person's character or performance, the focus on a single aspect—such as a particular trait, behavior, or incident—can disproportionately influence the overall assessment. As a result, the evaluator may overlook other relevant characteristics or evidence, leading to a skewed perception.

For example, if someone is known for their strong analytical skills but struggles with communication, an evaluator might disproportionately weigh the analytical strength, thereby potentially underestimating the importance of communication skills in a collaborative work environment. This narrow focus creates a simplified understanding that does not capture the individual's full capabilities or shortcomings.

The other terms refer to different psychological phenomena. Confirmation bias relates to the tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information that confirms one’s preexisting beliefs. Projection bias involves the assumption that others share the same beliefs and feelings as oneself. Satisficing is a decision-making strategy that entails selecting the first satisfactory option rather than the optimal one. These concepts, while important in their own right, do not directly map to the phenomenon described in the question regarding the reliance on