The Hawthorne Effect happens when “subjects of an experimental study attempt to change or improve their behaviour simply because it is being evaluated or studied”.
At first glance the Hawthorne Effect seems detrimental to quality research. And, in most cases, it probably is. For example, that’s why it’s hard to do studies on what people eat, because when people are conscious they’re being watched, they modulate what they eat.
Despite its flaws, the Hawthorne Effect can also be a powerful tool. If you’ve ever tracked your calories, you’ll know the act of inputting your food into an app will make you second guess that late afternoon snack. Watching your own calories often leads to less snacking and choosing healthier options.
The Hawthorne Effect is neither good nor bad. It just is. How we choose to use it, or how we interpret the results of a study impacted by it, is our responsibility.