subject: Hair At First Glance [print this page] It is interesting how humans as a species have managed to attach so much power and symbolism to hair. Compared to other parts of the body, however, it isn't too hard to figure out. Our hair is a feathery ornament with which we can express ourselves a silent emissary, one with a clear and distinct message. And when an individual is losing (or has lost) his or her hair, all of the creative options for making the hair (or social) statement of his or her choice are gone. Mike, who is experiencing male pattern baldness, said, "I think it comes down to options." Theresa agreed. "There's no freedom if you're losing your hair, you're very restricted you feel confinedyou feel caged."We have always known that hair is important, but perhaps not why. Simply put, our hair is an instrument that helps us make a statement. Because it can be manipulated in ways that modify our appearance, any change in style or color can significantly alter the perception of who we are or want to be. A new and flattering hair style can improve our appearance immediately, and change the way we present ourselves. If not the most beautiful part of the head, hair certainly is the most beautifying. To improve the shape of mouth, nose, chin, or eyes requires time and patience, but the arrangement of the hair can be altered in a minute, not only to its own advantage, but so as to enhance the beauty of the whole face. By clever manipulation of her long tresses, a woman can alter her appearance almost as completely as a man can by shaving off his long beard or moustache.One's physical appearance is, no doubt, the most easily noticeable quality of being human and the one that is most apt to create or affect an impression, especially a first impression. Because hair is a major aspect of one's appearance (as people are almost always physically described by the color and length of their hair, among other identifying qualities), significant hair loss is likely to be noticed right away and filed in the observer's memory, along with feelings and character perceptions about the balding individual. People hold assumptions and attitudes about physical attributes and readily, often nonconsciously, sort people into a variety of cognitive categories or prototypes. These appearance-cued first impressions may act as a funnel, through which other perceptions, expectations, feelings, and social behaviors are channeled. Thus, first impressions persist in the eye of the beholder to the extent that they set the stage for self-confirming, cognitive, and social behavioral processes.
