Using the Barnum Effect to Teach about Ethics and Deception in Research

Abstract

The Barnum effect was generated to teach students about the ethics of deception in research and the feelings of subjects who are lied to. Students in research methods classes received feedback based on a bogus personality inventory and rated the perceived validity of the interpretations. Students accepted the feedback, although seniors were more skeptical than juniors or sophomores. The class discussed the ethics of deception based on their own reactions to the knowledge that they were deceived. Students agreed that the approach was effective in helping them learn firsthand about the costs and benefits of deception in research.