Foundations of First Impressions

The beginning of one’s life path is established through the first experiences that significantly influence the further development of personality. Even from early childhood, small, sometimes barely noticeable moments can form basic attitudes and images that remain with us for life. Research and specialists’ observations confirm that the very first encounter with the world becomes the starting point for shaping one’s character and worldview.

At the heart of this idea is the belief that early life impressions, whether they arise from family upbringing or initial personal experiences, possess a unique power. They not only set the tone for later experiences but also substantially influence the perception of new situations in adulthood. Every new encounter with any phenomenon triggers a chain of associations, where the initial response is decisive for subsequent experience, helping us interpret and perceive the world in a new light.

In summary, it can be confidently asserted that the influence of first impressions is not confined to childhood. They remain an essential support in forming our life attitudes and values. It is precisely these first moments, filled with emotions and discoveries, that become the foundation upon which our future path, emotions, and interactions with the world are built.
Is it really true that first impressions are the strongest, or is this effect merely a myth?

Based on the presented materials, it can be argued that first impressions indeed have a deeply ingrained impact, especially in early childhood, and their influence is long-lasting. For example, source link (p. 13) states:
"The first life impressions of a person are typically the most profound and powerful, and therefore such family upbringing undoubtedly had great moral significance…"
This statement underlines that early experiences lay the groundwork for further personality development, becoming the "seed of future life."

A similar idea is supported in another source, which notes:
"First impressions are the foundation for subsequent perception. Under the influence of early impressions, a child forms primary images that stay with them for life…" ( link ).
This material emphasizes that the initial images and sensations serve as the starting point for the later development of character and worldview.

It is also evident that first interactions with the surrounding world are important not only in childhood but also for adult perception. For instance, source link notes:
"At the beginning of each new experience, a person inevitably forms their first impression, which can be key to the further perception of that experience."
This indicates that even when encountering something new, the initial response can set the tone for subsequent understanding and reaction.

Finally, the view of many specialists is echoed in source link , where it is stated:
"There is a widespread belief that first impressions are the most important and strongest."
This perspective confirms that the effect of first impressions is not a myth, but a genuine phenomenon that influences the formation of our subsequent attitudes and values.

Thus, the extensive field of psychological observations and research presented in these sources indicates that first impressions indeed possess significant power and can exert a long-term impact on personal development.

Supporting citation(s):
"The first life impressions of a person are typically the most profound and powerful, and therefore such family upbringing undoubtedly had great moral significance…" (source: link , page: 13)
"First impressions are the foundation for subsequent perception. Under the influence of early impressions, a child forms primary images that stay with them for life…" (source: link )
"At the beginning of each new experience, a person inevitably forms their first impression, which can be key to the further perception of that experience." (source: link )
"There is a widespread belief that first impressions are the most important and strongest." (source: link )