Explain the Hawthorne effect-what it is and where it originated-and give a brief example that illustrates it.

The Hawthorne effect is a psychological phenomenon where individuals modify their behavior or performance when they are aware that they are being observed. This effect was first observed in the 1920s and 1930s during a series of studies conducted at the Hawthorne Works plant of Western Electric in Chicago. The original purpose of the studies was to examine the relationship between workplace lighting and employee productivity. However, researchers found that regardless of the changes in lighting conditions, productivity increased simply because the workers were being observed and felt that their efforts were being recognized.

An example of the Hawthorne effect can be seen in a workplace setting where employees may work harder or be more productive when they know that their supervisors are monitoring their performance. For instance, if a manager decides to closely monitor a team's performance for a week, the employees may be more motivated to work efficiently and effectively during that time, even if the manager's presence is temporary. This change in behavior is a result of the employees' awareness of being observed, rather than any actual changes in the work environment.