Biases in thinking
Backfire effect
The idea that correcting someone's belief can make them hold it more strongly. Later research found this is much rarer than first thought.
Early studies suggested that facts against a strongly held belief could entrench it. People certainly resist correction, especially when a belief is tied to who they are.
Larger studies since have found that corrections usually work, at least a little. The lesson for design is about tone: correct gently, explain why, and don't make people feel stupid.
In practice
A product that tells users their workflow is 'wrong' meets more resistance than one that shows a faster way alongside theirs.
Common mistake
Treating it as proof that facts don't matter. Most of the time, a clear, respectful correction does change minds.
Where it comes from
Reported by Brendan Nyhan and Jason Reifler in 2010. Thomas Wood and Ethan Porter's large 2019 study found it rarely happens.