Existence and Robustness of the Blue and Seven Phenomena

Summary In previous research Ss asked to name a digit 0–9 and a color have shown preferences for seven and blue. This study sought to modify behavior by informing Ss of the bias. It was hypothesized that on the closed scale of numbers Ss might be influenced to produce a rectangular frequency distribution, while on the open scale of color any attempt to comply with E's request would increase the range of color responses. Ss were 145 Australian university students (118 male, 27 female, mean age 19.5 yrs.) and data were collected in a group setting by written responses to verbal requests. Results showed existence of both blue and seven phenomena and partial modification of behavior in response to information about bias. Results offered no evidence for a combined blue-seven or seven-blue phenomenon.