Ben Franklin Effect

The Ben Franklin Effect refers to the psychological phenomenon where a person tends to develop positive feelings and affinity towards someone they have previously helped or performed a favor for.

Explanation

The Ben Franklin Effect challenges the common belief that we do favors for others because we like them. Rather, it suggests that we tend to like someone more after we have done something beneficial for them.

Origin

The effect is named after Benjamin Franklin, an American polymath and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Franklin observed this phenomenon and described it in a letter to a rival, explaining how he was able to turn the relationship into a more positive one by asking for a small favor.

Examples

An example of the Ben Franklin Effect is when a person asks another for help or advice and subsequently starts developing feelings of affection or friendship towards the person who provided assistance. This effect can be observed in various social settings, such as friendships, office environments, or even in negotiations and diplomacy.

Mechanism

The Ben Franklin Effect can be explained using cognitive dissonance theory. When a person acts kindly towards someone they previously held neutral or negative feelings for, it creates a psychological discomfort due to the inconsistency between their actions and original beliefs. To reduce this discomfort, they reevaluate their beliefs and attitudes towards the person, leading to a shift towards more positive feelings.

Implications

Understanding the Ben Franklin Effect can be useful in building and improving relationships. By asking others for small favors or assistance, we can potentially foster positive feelings and strengthen connections. This effect can also be valuable in negotiations or conflict resolution, as offering opportunities for small concessions or favors can help build rapport and reduce hostility.