How does the illusion of control bias affect problem-solving?

The illusion of control bias can lead to ineffective problem-solving strategies.

The illusion of control bias is a cognitive bias that causes individuals to overestimate their ability to control outcomes in situations where they have little to no control. This bias can lead individuals to adopt ineffective problem-solving strategies, as they may believe that they can control outcomes that are actually outside of their control.

For example, an individual who believes that they can control the outcome of a job interview by wearing a certain outfit or using a specific tone of voice may be less likely to prepare for the interview in other ways, such as researching the company or practicing their responses to common interview questions. This can ultimately lead to a less successful outcome.

Similarly, individuals who believe that they can control the outcome of a sports game by wearing a lucky item of clothing or performing a certain ritual may be less likely to focus on improving their skills or developing effective team strategies.

Overall, the illusion of control bias can lead individuals to adopt ineffective problem-solving strategies by causing them to focus on factors that are outside of their control, rather than developing effective strategies based on the available evidence.