Discussion on Dynamic vs. Static Norms in Behavior Change

Launderette vs. Laundromat

• The speaker mentions washing champagne stains from dressing gowns in a launderette, referring to the same as a laundromat in the U.S.

Washing Machine Use

• Reminder to fill washing machines completely to conserve water.
• Reference to a flyer that encourages users to fill washers to reduce water waste, indicating a functional design.

Influence of Social Norms

• The flyer highlighted that many people have started filling up their washers, demonstrating a behavioral change.
• Difference between dynamic norms (people starting a new behavior) and static norms (people already doing a behavior).
• Dynamic Norms: Encourage individuals to imagine starting a new behavior.
• Static Norms: Can feel less relatable, possibly hindering behavior change.
  Overall, the dynamic aspect encourages involvement in the change versus feeling left out.

Research on Effectiveness of Norms

• Study conducted in a cafeteria with two groups:

1. Static Norm: "Many people are choosing to have less meat."
2. Dynamic Norm: "Many people are starting to have less meat."

• Participants were given a food voucher as a thank you for participation, allowing researchers to track meal choices.
• Results showed that those exposed to dynamic norms were more than twice as likely to choose meals without meat compared to those given static norms.

Real-World Application of Research

• Discussion on how psychologists connect laboratory research with real-world behavior, measuring actual changes in choices made by individuals.

Classroom Context

• The conversation transitions back to a classroom setting to remind participants of the purpose of their engagement, emphasizing focus over mundane tasks like laundry.

Acknowledgments

• The speaker ends with mentions of other individuals and congratulatory notes to campus visitors.