Joanie is in a research study in which she is told that a powerful new drug will dramatically increase her memory abilities.She is then administered the drug,which is in fact a placebo.How will Joanie do on a memory test after taking the drug?
A) She will remember about the same amount as she would have without it.
B) She will be able to remember more if she believes the drug is effective.
C) She will show memory interference because her expectation about the drug does not match the actual placebo effects.
D) She will remember more regardless of what she believes about the drug.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Joanie is more likely to perform better on the memory test if she believes the drug is effective. This is because of the placebo effect, which can cause improvements in a person's performance or symptoms due to their belief in the effectiveness of a treatment, even if the treatment has no actual physiological effect. The expectation of improved memory abilities can lead Joanie to approach the test with more confidence and focus, which can translate into better results.

Joanie Is in a Research Study in Which She Is