Provide an Example of a Demand Characteristic That Could Unintentionally

question 11

Essay

Provide an example of a demand characteristic that could unintentionally alter the results of an experimental research study. Explain how researchers try to get around such demand characteristics.

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Definitions:

Cognitive Dissonance Theory

A psychological theory suggesting that individuals experience discomfort when holding two or more contradictory beliefs, leading them to alter attitudes or behaviors.

Self-perception Theory

A theory suggesting that individuals develop their attitudes and feelings by observing their own behavior and concluding what attitudes must have caused it.

Attitude Changes

Alterations in an individual's outlook, opinions, or feelings towards various aspects of their environment or themselves, often as a result of experiences or new information.

Egoism

Giving to another person to ensure reciprocity; to gain self-esteem; to present oneself as powerful, competent, or caring; or to avoid social and self-censure for failing to live up to society’s expectations.