suspicion

Suspicion is an attitude or feeling that a person or thing is likely involved in some wrongdoing, or that a claim or situation is unlikely or doubtful, often without full proof. It can be directed at individuals, groups, or circumstances, and may be accompanied by caution, skepticism, or investigative behavior. Etymology: from Latin suspicere “to look up at, to mistrust,” from sub- “up from under” and specere “to look.”

In psychology, suspicion is a cognitive process that can arise from incongruent information, uncertainty, or perceived threats. Rational suspicion relies on evidence and helps guide decision-making, while irrational or excessive suspicion can contribute to paranoia or stigmatization. Suspicion differs from distrust in that it may be intermediate between belief and doubt and can be revised with new information.

In law and investigations, suspicion often plays a role in decision-making, such as the standard of reasonable suspicion used to justify brief investigatory stops in some jurisdictions. Suspicions may prompt inquiry, surveillance, or corroboration, but should not substitute for evidence.

Socially, suspicion can contribute to conflict, rumors, or prejudice when unfounded. It can decline if transparent information, accountability, and open communication are provided.

In research and practice, scientists examine suspicion as part of theories about trust, uncertainty, and decision-making. Measures may include self-report scales or behavioral indicators, and contexts range from everyday relationships to organizational or criminal justice settings.

See also: mistrust, doubt, skepticism, paranoia, evidence, probability.