Types of inference-observation confusion

• Mind reading. By watching the behaviour and nonverbal communication, we assume we know how someone feels, even when there are other potential explanations.
• Fortune telling. We predict an outcome without having enough evidence. For example, we don't even try to enter a competition because we don't think we will win. These kinds of expectations can prevent us from taking action.
• Labelling. We overgeneralise by labelling all the members of a group with the characteristics seen in a few.

Jumping to conclusions often comes from our desire to sound compassionate and invested in what someone is telling us.

We may comment by saying "wow", or "what a shame" when we really have no idea how the person wants us to feel. Instead of sounding supportive, we may c...