Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam 2025 - Free CHIMA Practice Questions and Study Guide

The halo effect describes a cognitive bias where the perception of one positive trait or aspect of a person's character can significantly influence the perception of their entire character. For example, if someone is noted for being particularly friendly, observers might also unconsciously attribute other positive traits to them, such as being intelligent, reliable, or kind, without evidence to support those claims. This occurs because the initial favorable impression casts a "halo" over other characteristics, leading to an overall positive perception.

This concept is essential in various fields, including health information management, where professionals must remain aware of biases that could affect their judgment about others in a healthcare setting. Understanding the halo effect can help mitigate the impact of these perceptions and encourage more objective evaluations based on a broader assessment of an individual's competencies and behaviors.