Forer Effect - Origin of Term - Barnum Effect

Barnum Effect

The Forer effect is more frequently referred to as "The Barnum Effect". This term was coined in 1956 by American psychologist Paul Meehl in his essay, "Wanted - A Good Cookbook". He relates the vague personality descriptions used in certain "pseudo-successful" psychological tests to those given by entertainer and businessman P.T. Barnum, who was a notorious hoaxer.

Read more about this topic:  Forer Effect, Origin of Term

Famous quotes containing the words barnum and/or effect:

    There’s a sucker born every minute.
    —Phineas Barnum (1810–1891)

    That when that knot’s untied that made us one,
    I may seem thine, who in effect am none.
    And if I see not half my dayes that’s due,
    What nature would, God grant to yours and you;
    Anne Bradstreet (c. 1612–1672)