Glossary / Lexicon

Bogus pipeline refers to a procedure that fools people into disclosing their attitudes. Participants are first convinced that a machine can use their psychological responses to measure their private attitudes, then they are asked to predict the machine's Reading, thus revealing their attitudes.

It refers also to a phony lie-detector device that is sometimes used to get respondents to give truthful answers to sensitive questions. It is a procedure that fools people into disclosing their attitudes. Participants are first convinced that a machine can use their psychological responses to measure their private attitudes. Then they are asked to predict the machine's reading, thus revealing their attitudes.

Description

The Bogus Pipeline is a technique used in psychology to measure attitudes or beliefs by creating a fake lie detector device. Participants are led to believe that the machine can detect their true feelings, even if they are trying to deceive the experimenter. By creating this illusion of a truthful measurement device, researchers aim to elicit more honest responses from participants. This method is based on the theory that people are more likely to reveal their true thoughts when they believe they cannot control or manipulate the outcome.

Application Areas

• Attitude research
• Social psychology studies
• Market research
• Therapeutic settings
• Forensic psychology

Treatment and Risks

• The Bogus Pipeline can be used as a tool in therapy to encourage clients to be more honest about their feelings and thoughts.
• One risk of using this technique is that it may lead to heightened anxiety or discomfort in participants who believe their true feelings are being revealed.
• It is important for researchers and therapists to ensure that participants are fully informed about the nature of the Bogus Pipeline and its purpose.

Examples

• A researcher tells participants that they will be hooked up to a lie detector machine while answering questions about their political beliefs.
• In a therapy session, a client is led to believe that a device is monitoring their emotional responses during a discussion about past traumas.
• A marketing study uses a fake feedback system to measure customers' true reactions to a new product.

Similar Concepts and Synonyms

• Fake lie detector method
• Pseudo-pipeline technique
• Deception detection method
• Illusionary truth device

Summary

The Bogus Pipeline is a psychological technique that involves creating a fake lie detector device to measure attitudes or beliefs. By instilling the belief that participants cannot deceive the system, researchers aim to elicit more truthful responses. This method has applications in various fields, including attitude research, therapy, and market studies. While the Bogus Pipeline can be a valuable tool, it is essential to consider the ethical implications and potential risks associated with deceiving participants or clients.

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