Egotistic trap as a social influence technique

Two experiments tested the effectiveness of an egotistic trap, a social influence technique based on premise that people agree to requests align with their desirable qualities. In first experiment, were asked participate in survey-based study. control conditions (standard request), approx. 32.7% said yes. Yet, when it was mentioned intelligent individuals sought after and subject appeared intelligent, percentage became 52.4%. The second experiment aimed persuade car owners have cars inspected at official service station. Of participants, 56.7% agreed standard conditions. However, phrase ‘studies show sensible customers stations’ included, 71.7%.