Steve has suffered from chronic back pain ever since he experienced a sports-related injury in high school. Though he could easily be prescribed medication to subdue the pain, Steve's girlfriend believes that yoga will help reduce the pain. Despite strongly not believing that it will do any benefit, Steve takes a 12-week yoga program at his university. After the program ended, Steve was not surprised when his chronic back pain seemed unaltered. What sort of effect does the scenario exemplify?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scenario exemplifies the nocebo effect, where negative expectations of the individual regarding a treatment lead to a more negative outcome than would otherwise occur. Steve's strong disbelief in the benefits of yoga for his condition likely contributed to the lack of improvement in his chronic back pain.

Steve Has Suffered from Chronic Back Pain Ever Since He