The Hawthorne Effect - Definition, History, and Examples

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The Hawthorne effect is a phenomenon where individuals change their behavior when they know they are being observed, leading to skewed research results. The effect was first observed in the 1920s during a series of experiments conducted at the Western Electric Company's Hawthorne Works in Chicago, hence its name.

The Hawthorne effect is prevalent in various fields, including psychology, sociology, education, and healthcare. For instance, a patient's behavior may differ from their normal behavior when being observed by a healthcare provider, leading to inaccurate diagnoses or treatment plans.

The Hawthorne effect has significant implications for research design, as it can influence the validity and reliability of data collected. Therefore, researchers must be aware of the effect and take measures to minimize it, such as ensuring participants are comfortable and at ease during the study and limiting the length of observation periods. By understanding and mitigating the Hawthorne effect, researchers can ensure that their findings accurately reflect reality and contribute to the advancement of their respective fields.

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