Psychology of the Scientist: XIV. Experimenters' Hypothesis-Confirmation and Mood as Determinants of Experimental Results

Abstract

26 Es, each running about 6 Ss on a photo-rating task, were led to expect one of two opposite experimental results. Within each of these two groups of Es, half had their expectancies confirmed and half had their expectancies disconfirmed by their first 2 Ss (who were actually accomplices). Within each condition, half of the Es were praised and half were reproved for their experimental technique by one of two critics. The data obtained by any given E were found to depend on: (1) which of two critics had supervised him; (2) whether he was praised or reproved; (3) whether his early data returns confirmed or disconfirmed his initial hypothesis; (4) the initial hypothesis itself (when confirmed by early returns); and (5) certain of his more enduring personal characteristics.