A recent study has revealed the assumptions people in Yorkshire make about others based on their first names alone. The research, conducted by name label manufacturer My Nametags, found that over a third of locals (34%) form opinions about others from their first name, with stereotypes emerging as early as primary school.
Ryan and Sophie were voted the most attractive names, while Christopher and Elizabeth were considered the most intelligent. The study also found that over a quarter of locals (27%) believe a name can influence whether they date someone.
Other findings include:
- Most rebellious: Liam and Megan
- Most eccentric: Samuel and Patricia
- Most funny: Jack and Hannah
- Most confident: Jack and Charlotte
- Most shy: Samuel and Emily
- Most successful: Samuel and Elizabeth
- Most kind: Matthew and Mary
Chartered Clinical Psychologist Linda Blair explained why first names carry so much weight. She said: “In today’s information-rich world, we rely on shortcuts like facial expression, body language, and a person’s first name to form stereotypes. These stereotypes become fixed in our minds because of confirmatory bias, where we notice and remember people who match the stereotype and ignore those who don’t.”
The study also found that these perceptions are shaped by classmates, celebrities, fictional characters, and family members.
Lars B. Andersen, Managing Director at My Nametags, commented: “Discovering what influences our assumptions about people before we get to know them was fascinating. Expectant parents will find this insight useful when choosing a name for their child, as it shows how society perceives some of the most common names in the UK.”
The research offers a snapshot of how Yorkshire locals judge personality traits based on first names, highlighting how stereotypes still influence everyday interactions.
