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Based on the concept of motivational bias, why are the participants continuing to hold onto their incorrect belief about the calorie-reducing diet despite the lack of empirical evidence?
Case context: A research team is investigating the effectiveness of calorie-reducing diets. During the study, researchers observe that many participants refuse to abandon their chosen diet plan, even after being shown clear empirical evidence that it is ineffective for long-term health. When interviewed, the participants explain that sticking to the diet gives them a sense of hope and makes them feel good about actively managing their weight.
Question: Based on the concept of motivational bias, why are the participants continuing to hold onto their incorrect belief about the calorie-reducing diet despite the lack of empirical evidence?
Sample answer: The participants are exhibiting a motivational bias by holding onto their intuitive belief about the diet because it is emotionally comforting. Even though the empirical evidence contradicts their belief, they maintain it because the idea of the diet working provides them with hope and fosters positive feelings about themselves taking control of their health.
Key points:
- Participants are holding onto an incorrect intuitive belief about calorie-reducing diets.
- They ignore the lack of empirical evidence supporting the diet.
- They maintain the belief because it is emotionally pleasing and comforting.
- The belief provides them with hope for their health goals.
- It fosters positive feelings about themselves.
Rubric: Award full points if the student demonstrates comprehension of motivational bias by explaining that the participants ignore empirical evidence because the belief in the diet is emotionally pleasing, provides hope, and fosters positive self-feelings.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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Calorie-Reducing Diets as an Example of Motivational Bias
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