Thorne and Himelstein (1984) tested whether groups of students would report hearing satanic words in rock songs played backward when instructed under three different conditions. The group instructed to listen for satanic words heard the most satanic words due to the researchers' finding that:
A) sensation can limit the accuracy of perception.
B) perceptions are actually subliminal messages.
C) expectations can bias perception.
D) satanic beliefs influence listeners.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The researchers found that the group instructed to listen for satanic words heard the most satanic words, indicating that expectations can bias perception. This suggests that the group's preconceived beliefs about the presence of satanic content in rock songs influenced their perception of the backward lyrics.

Thorne and Himelstein (1984) Tested Whether Groups of Students Would