Set 4: Central Ideas (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The following text describes the placebo effect. The placebo effect constitutes a remarkable phenomenon in which a patient's condition improves after receiving a treatment that has no therapeutic effect, such as a sugar pill. This improvement is attributed to the patient's expectation of help. Current research suggests it involves complex neurobiological mechanisms, including the release of endorphins and dopamine. It demonstrates the powerful connection between the mind and the body in healing.
To what is the improvement in the placebo effect primarily attributed?
Detailed Explanation
Choice B is correct. The text explicitly states: 'This improvement is attributed to the patient's expectation of help.'
Key Evidence:
• "improvement is attributed to the patient's expectation of help"
• "connection between the mind and the body"
Why others are wrong: A (Inaccurate (sugar pill has no therapeutic effect)), C (Not mentioned), D (Not mentioned).