Because – The Power of Giving a Reason

According to a classic psychology study (the copy-machine study), providing a reason significantly influences the likelihood of receiving permission.

The study showed that when people were given a reason for a request, like cutting in line at a copy machine, they were much more likely to agree compared to when no reason was given. The type of reason, whether nonsensical or generic, did not make a significant difference.

While only 60% of participants agreed when no reason was given, for the other reasons, 94% agreed when a real reason (' I'm in a rush') was given, and 93% of participants agreed when a nonsensical reason was given ('because I have to make copies' – all of the people waiting in line had to make some copies…), which is nearly identical compliance.

However, the effect of giving a reason diminished when the request became more substantial, such as making 20 copies instead of five.

Overall, the research highlights the power of providing a reason, even if it may not seem substantial, as any reason tends to improve the chances of getting what one wants.

References:

Curiosity Daily through Snipd

The original study