No abstract

For drugs, perceptual characteristics of size, form, and color have been associated with specific expectancies. Generally, capsules are perceived as stronger than tablets, larger capsules are seen as stronger than smaller ones, and some capsule colors have specifically ascribed expectations of drug action. This study replicated previous work with black subjects to assess perceptual constancies in drug expectancy between ethnic groups. 50 black subjects classified 12 colored capsules into 5 categories of drug action, rank-ordered 6 capsule sizes for relative strength, and compared a tablet and capsule for strength. Appreciable differences between white and black samples were noted for size-strength relationships and drug action expectancy associated with capsule colors. Results suggest ethnic implications for drug efficacy and compliance, with blacks less influenced by perceptual characteristics of drugs.

The placebo was acknowledged as a potent agent associated with a myriad of psychological, therapeutic, and behavioral effects. Given the widespread use and efficaq of placebos, major needs relative to more accurate conceptualization, appreciation, and effective use of properties were discussed. Emphasis was placed on considerations of the placebo as a complex stimulus. The physical and perceptual characteristics of placebos were reviewed in regard to efficaq, with specific attention to route of administration, preparation form, size and dose, color, taste, and interpretation of 'pharmacological' agentry. Conclusions were directed to facilitating optimal effectiveness of a placebo. Directions for further research were suggested, and failure to consider the differential stimuli of placebos was viewed as contributing to the potential unwitting confounding in studies.

Needs for accountability and cost effectiveness in educational programs were noted, with particular concern for academic performance. Emphasizing the influence of instructor and student expectations, individual and behavioral variables that contribute to assumptions about performance are reviewed. In this study, we evaluated relationships to academic performance of classroom seating location and initial class attendance in psychology classes involving over 200 students at two universities. Based on point-biserial correlations, seating position was unrelated to performance, whereas initial attendance was strongly related. Findings were interpreted in terms of possible instructor or student biases, and several additional variables were suggested for expanded research.

Perceptual properties of medications can elicit specific expectancies and may have implications for patients' compliance. To explore the relationship between capsules' color and perceived potency, 20 participants rank-ordered seven capsules of saturated hue. 10 men showed more agreement than 10 women in ranking strength; red and black capsules were ranked as 'strongest' and white as 'weakest.'