Local Expert Explains Michael Vick's 'Halo Effect'

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Daily News and the Sports Industry Research Center at Temple University conducted a survey showing 60 percent of participants say they have a more positive view of Michael Vick when asked if his performance on and off the field had changed their opinion of him.

One Philadelphia sports psychologist shares his professional opinion.

Dr. Joel Fish is the director of the center for sports psychology in Philadelphia. He says there is something called the "halo effect":

"When somebody is doing something that is satisfying for you, you are more likely to give them the benefit of the doubt. You are more likely to give them more time to prove to you that they really changed. So because the team has been winning I think he is benefitting from the 'halo effect". If the team weren't winning I think you have more fans fall into the category that I need a little more time to see if this change is short term and is really sincere."

Dr. Fish says it's not just the winning that has influenced fans it is also the awareness that his teammates get along with him and that Vick performs community service.

Reported By John McDevitt, KYW Newsradio.