Cognitive Bias "Cascade of Available Information": Understanding and Examples Cognitive biases are systematic errors in thinking that distort our perception of reality. One such distortion is the "Cascade of Available Information". It is a psychological phenomenon in which people prefer to view the information that was initially presented to them as the most reliable and important, despite the presence of additional data. Definition of "Cascade of Available Information" When we encounter some new information, our mind often turns to those sources and knowledge that immediately come to mind. These sources are often considered the most relevant, and we tend to trust them more than other sources, even though additional data may be more relevant and accurate. Examples of the "Cascade of Available Information"1. Media influences Let's imagine that we have a media article about some event. The initial information provided in this article can provide a basis for our understanding of the situation. However, unless we seek additional sources and analyze different points of view, we can limit ourselves to only what is presented in the article, despite the possible presence of more objective data.2. Social BiasThe cascade of available information can also influence our social biases. For example, if we grew up in a particular cultural environment, we may tend to trust and prefer sources associated with that culture, while ignoring other opinions and viewpoints.3. The Internet and Echo Chambers On the Internet, algorithms tailor content to our preferences and past behavior. This can create echo chambers in which we constantly see confirmation of our beliefs without subjecting them to critical analysis. Consequences of the “Cascade of Available Information” The Cascade of Available Information can lead to a distorted perception of reality and poor decision making. We may miss important data simply because it doesn't match our original information. This bias can also reinforce stereotypes and biases because we limit ourselves to information that confirms our existing beliefs. Overcoming the "Cascade of Available Information" Avoiding this bias requires proactive seek out a variety of sources of information, analyze different points of view, and consider additional data. Critical thinking and the ability to view information from multiple perspectives can help us overcome the cascade of available information. “Cascade of accessible information” in the work of a psychologist Cognitive distortion “Cascade of accessible information” is one of the important concepts that describes errors in thinking. This phenomenon can lead to incorrect conclusions and erroneous decisions, and is often found in the work of a psychologist. The cascade of available information is the process by which people form their opinions and assessments based on available information. If the initial information a person receives contains errors or distortions, then subsequent information will be selected and distorted based on that initial information. For example, let a psychologist conduct a study on how people perceive new technologies. The first participant interviewed by the psychologist states that he is confident that all new technologies are useful things. The next participant who hears the first one's answer will be inclined to agree with it, even if his personal experience says otherwise. The third participant will join accordingly, etc. Thus, the “cascade of available information” can lead to unfounded statements and incorrect conclusions. Refusal of a rational approach and preference for consistent adherence to existing beliefs is dangerous in the work of a psychotherapist. In the work of a psychologist, it is always important to take into account this cognitive distortion and try to understand how it can manifest itself in a particular client. Examples of using the “Cascade of Available Information” in the work of a psychologist: 1..