Which of the following demonstrates the placebo effect?
A) Wanda is getting a drug to control her anxiety; therefore, her younger brother wants to get a drug.
B) Eugene's therapist gave him an inactive medication, which she claimed would cure his insomnia. Eugene sleeps better when he takes this pill.
C) Harvey is suffering from depression, but treatment is not available. Eventually, his depression dissipates.
D) Hilary's therapist doesn't know how to cure her schizophrenia, but tries a variety of techniques, none of which works.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scenario in option B clearly demonstrates the placebo effect. Eugene's therapist gave him an inactive medication, but he sleeps better when he takes it because he believes it will cure his insomnia. This shows how the power of belief can have a real effect on physical symptoms. The other options do not demonstrate the placebo effect - option A shows the influence of suggestion, option C may be due to natural recovery, and option D shows unsuccessful treatment attempts.

Which of the Following Demonstrates the Placebo Effect