Is recency bias a problem?

Recency bias can be a problem in a number of situations, because it causes us to give undue weight to recent events when making decisions. As a result, those decisions can overlook longer-term data, and produce bad decision-making processes.

For example, a recent airplane crash might be in your mind as you fly, and will make you more nervous or anxious than the situation warrants. The recent accident makes little difference to the overall very good safety record of air travel, but because it is fresh in your mind, it enjoys greater importance.

Similarly, a few unsuccessful job applications can lead you to feel there is no point in applying when your dream job comes up, even though over the years you have been successful in changing positions.