The Bradley effect occurs when people ________.

• A. attribute their emotional responses to external events rather than internal states
• B. are unable to recognize their own emotional expressions in a mirror
• C. experience physiological arousal before identifying the emotion they are feeling
• D. give socially desirable responses to pollsters rather than their true preferences, especially on sensitive topics

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the Bradley effect is a social psychology phenomenon related to how people respond in surveys or polls, especially on sensitive topics like race or politics.
2. Recognize that the effect occurs when individuals provide answers they believe are socially acceptable or desirable rather than their true feelings or preferences.
3. Note that this behavior is often motivated by a desire to avoid appearing prejudiced or socially inappropriate in front of pollsters or researchers.
4. Identify that the Bradley effect specifically refers to the discrepancy between what people say in polls and how they actually behave or vote in private.
5. Conclude that the Bradley effect is best described as people giving socially desirable responses to pollsters rather than their true preferences, especially on sensitive topics.