Question

What is the phenomenon that unusual events are likely to be followed by more nearly normal ones?

1) Regression to the mean
2) Confirmation bias
3) Availability heuristic
4) Anchoring effect

Answer 1

Regression to the mean is the phenomenon where extreme cases are likely to move closer to the average in subsequent observations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phenomenon that unusual events are likely to be followed by more nearly normal ones is called regression to the mean. This occurs because extreme cases (either high or low) are usually not sustainable and tend to move closer to the average on subsequent attempts or observations. For instance, if a basketball player has an unusually high scoring game, their following games will likely reflect their average performance rather than maintain that unusually high scoring level. The concept of regression to the mean explains why this reversion to normalcy happens.