The Hawthorne Effect

B2 16+

Pronunciation: /ðə ˈhɔːˌθɔrn ɪˌfɛkt/

Definitions of the Hawthorne effect

noun the Hawthorne effect - a term used to describe the phenomenon where individuals modify their behavior or performance in response to being observed

Example Sentences

A1 The Hawthorne effect is when people change their behavior because they know they are being observed.

A2 Researchers need to consider the Hawthorne effect when designing experiments to ensure accurate results.

B1 The Hawthorne effect can impact the outcome of studies by influencing participants' behavior.

B2 Understanding the Hawthorne effect is crucial in conducting valid research and drawing reliable conclusions.

C1 Researchers must take measures to minimize the Hawthorne effect in order to obtain unbiased data in their studies.

C2 The Hawthorne effect is a well-known phenomenon in social sciences and requires careful consideration in research methodology.

Examples of the Hawthorne effect in a Sentence

formal The Hawthorne effect refers to the phenomenon where individuals modify their behavior when they are aware that they are being observed.

informal People tend to work harder when they know they are being watched, that's the Hawthorne effect.

slang When the boss is around, everyone suddenly becomes more productive - it's like the Hawthorne effect kicking in.

figurative Just like how a plant grows taller when you pay attention to it, employees often perform better under the influence of the Hawthorne effect.

Grammatical Forms of the Hawthorne effect

past tense

observed

plural

Hawthorne effects

comparative

more Hawthorne effect

superlative

most Hawthorne effect

present tense

observes

future tense

will observe

perfect tense

has observed

continuous tense

is observing

singular

Hawthorne effect

positive degree

Hawthorne effect

infinitive

to observe

gerund

observing

participle

observed

Origin and Evolution of the Hawthorne effect

First Known Use: 1924 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The Hawthorne effect is named after a series of studies conducted at the Western Electric Hawthorne Works plant in Cicero, Illinois, in the 1920s and 1930s.
Evolution of the word: Initially, the Hawthorne effect referred to the phenomenon where individuals modify their behavior in response to being observed. Over time, it has come to encompass a broader concept of the impact of awareness and attention on behavior and performance in various settings.