Do we sometimes go with the momentum of people’s expectations, because it is easier than trying to explain why we have changed?

Back when I delivered newspapers as a kid, I got in the habit of stopping at the local convenience store for an Orange Crush and a Snickers bar (not sure why I never got fat). One day I went in thinking I was going to get something different, but the clerk had my usual ready for me. I went with the momentum instead of rocking the boat. I was probably only 12, so it’s understandable.

I have seen parents do this with their children. I was at a friends house and some other guests had a few children with them. I remember the dad saying, “Bobby will be the one to take care of me when I am older.” I wonder what effect that will have, good or bad. Is the dad implanting the story he wants in the child or does he believe the child has already decided this at age 5?

How much do people’s beliefs or expectations about you change your behavior?