When people are being watched, they behave better:Hawthorne effect

The statement "When people are being watched, they behave better" is a commonly held belief, but its accuracy is subject to debate. This notion is often referred to as the "Hawthorne effect," based on studies conducted at the Western Electric Hawthorne Works in Chicago during the 1920s and 1930s. The original studies suggested that individuals modified their behavior when they were aware of being observed, leading to improved performance.

However, it is important to note that the Hawthorne studies have been criticized for various methodological flaws, and subsequent research has provided mixed results regarding the influence of surveillance on behavior. While some studies support the idea that people tend to behave better when they know they are being watched, others have found no significant impact or even observed negative effects on behavior.

Factors such as the context of surveillance, individual personality traits, and cultural norms can significantly influence how people respond to being observed. In some cases, the awareness of surveillance may lead to increased self-consciousness and anxiety, potentially affecting performance and behavior negatively.

Furthermore, the extent to which surveillance impacts behavior may vary depending on the type of behavior being examined. For example, studies on cheating or dishonesty have found conflicting results, with some suggesting that surveillance reduces such behaviors while others indicate it may increase them.

Overall, while the belief that people behave better when they are being watched has some support, it is not a universally applicable principle, and its effects can be complex and context-dependent.