Question

A survey of physicians in 1979 found that some doctors give a placebo to patients who complain of pain for which the physician can find no cause. If the patients' pain improves, these doctors conclude that it had no physical basis. The medical researchers who conducted the survey claimed that these doctors do not understand the placebo effect. Why?

Answer 1

Below are the few reasons:

- There may have been a physical basis and yet the placebo can seem like it worked due to the patients mindset that they will get better. 
- Also, the doctors must not tell the patient that they will be taking a placebo. They must assure the patient that the "pill" will cure their problems.