For example, the question “Do you now feel a slight…
““For example, the question “Do you now feel a slight numbness in your left leg?” always prompts quite a few people to report that their left leg does indeed feel a little strange.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Asking about subtle physical sensations can lead people to report them, illustrating suggestion and self‑diagnosis.
In simple terms: Questions can create the feeling they ask about.
Key Takeaway
Be careful with leading questions.
Themes
cognition
suggestion
self‑report
bias
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
academic
scientific
When to use this quote
- medical interviews
- survey design
- court testimony
Key Concepts
psychology
behavioral economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How might you design questions to avoid bias?
- What are the limits of self‑diagnosis?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on self‑report can be unreliable.