describe what the Barnum effect is and its implications to clinical and medical settings

Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
5th Edition
ISBN:9780134477961
Author:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
Publisher:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
Chapter1: The Science Of Psychology
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1TY
icon
Related questions
Question

describe what the Barnum effect is and its implications to clinical and medical settings 

Expert Solution
Step 1

The Barnum Effect, also known as the Forer Effect, is a psychological phenomenon in which people tend to accept vague and general personality descriptions as specifically applicable to themselves. This effect is named after P. T. Barnum, an American showman and businessman, who was famous for his elaborate hoaxes and deceptions.

In a classic demonstration of the Barnum Effect, participants are given a personality test and receive a generic, but seemingly personalized, evaluation of their results. Despite the fact that the evaluation is not actually based on their answers, many participants still perceive it as highly accurate and believe that it is a true reflection of their personality.

trending now

Trending now

This is a popular solution!

steps

Step by step

Solved in 3 steps

Blurred answer
Recommended textbooks for you
Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
Psychology
ISBN:
9780134477961
Author:
Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
Publisher:
PEARSON
Cognitive Psychology
Cognitive Psychology
Psychology
ISBN:
9781337408271
Author:
Goldstein, E. Bruce.
Publisher:
Cengage Learning,
Introduction to Psychology: Gateways to Mind and …
Introduction to Psychology: Gateways to Mind and …
Psychology
ISBN:
9781337565691
Author:
Dennis Coon, John O. Mitterer, Tanya S. Martini
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
Psychology in Your Life (Second Edition)
Psychology in Your Life (Second Edition)
Psychology
ISBN:
9780393265156
Author:
Sarah Grison, Michael Gazzaniga
Publisher:
W. W. Norton & Company
Cognitive Psychology: Connecting Mind, Research a…
Cognitive Psychology: Connecting Mind, Research a…
Psychology
ISBN:
9781285763880
Author:
E. Bruce Goldstein
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
Theories of Personality (MindTap Course List)
Theories of Personality (MindTap Course List)
Psychology
ISBN:
9781305652958
Author:
Duane P. Schultz, Sydney Ellen Schultz
Publisher:
Cengage Learning