What is the term for the strong influence that first impressions can have on investigators?

The term for the strong influence that first impressions can have on investigators is "anchoring." Anchoring occurs when an initial piece of information influences subsequent judgments and decisions. In the context of investigations, the first impression formed by an investigator can significantly shape their perspective on a case. For instance, if an investigator perceives a witness as trustworthy during the initial meeting, they may pay more attention to that person's statements and may lean towards confirming their account, potentially overlooking evidence that contradicts this impression. This cognitive bias illustrates how first impressions can anchor an investigator's thoughts and choices, making it crucial for them to be aware of this tendency in order to maintain objectivity throughout the investigative process.

While deductive reasoning involves drawing specific conclusions from general principles, and inductive reasoning entails forming generalizations based on specific observations, these concepts do not directly relate to the influence of first impressions. A proactive response refers to taking initiative to address potential issues or situations before they arise, which also does not directly relate to the impact of initial perceptions.