According to social cognitive theory, who is least likely to be influenced by the self-positivity bias?

The self-positivity bias refers to the tendency for individuals to believe that they are less at risk for negative events compared to others. In this context, option C describes an individual with several friends who have hepatitis C, which makes them more aware of the disease and its risks. This awareness can reduce the influence of the self-positivity bias, as they are more likely to recognize the potential risks associated with hepatitis C due to their social network’s experiences.

In contrast, the other options represent individuals who may be more likely to hold the self-positivity bias. For example, an individual with hepatitis A (option A) could underestimate the severity of their risk by believing their situation is different from those with hepatitis C, or they may be motivated to view themselves positively. Similarly, a researcher studying hepatitis C (option B) might maintain a certain level of detachment or objectivity, yet could still be prone to bias about personal risk if they do not have direct experience with the disease. Lastly, a person who has never heard of hepatitis C (option D) is unlikely to have any awareness or consideration of risk, but this lack of information might shield them from acknowledging any risk; however, they would not effectively evaluate their own risk without context