Final answer:
Confirmation bias is when people project their own theories and assumptions onto the data, interpreting information in a way that confirms their existing beliefs. Examples include focusing on evidence that supports one's preconceptions while ignoring contradicting data, as well as perceiving false relationships between events, known as illusory correlations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When individuals project their own theories and assumptions onto the data to see patterns they would expect, it is known as confirmation bias. This cognitive bias involves the tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information in ways that confirm one's preconceived beliefs or hypotheses. An example of confirmation bias can be observed in the interpretation of a professor's actions based on an existing belief about their personality. The individual would notice instances that support this belief while ignoring contradictory evidence, thus further reinforcing their initial assumption.
Additionally, another related concept is the illusory correlation, where individuals falsely perceive a relationship between two events or variables when none exists. This can also stem from preconceived notions influencing one's perception of data. It reflects how our expectations and experiences shape our interpretation of sensory information, leading to perceptual sets that can bias our views.