Underground scientists: Applying Techniques of Reverse Psychology in the Exhibition Environment

Engaging visitors in an exhibition environment can at times be challenging. Constantly bombarding them with multi-sensory information and experiences can generate a boomerang effect and invoke visitor reluctance to participate in the process. On the other hand, applying reverse psychology in an exhibition environment to purposely limit visitors' access to information can induce curiosity and ultimately engage visitors fully in the process. According to the findings on human reactance among different demographic groups, this thesis demonstrates that reverse psychology can indeed be integrated into the exhibition design environment. Implementation of such techniques allows the designer to create an exhibition in which visitors interact with the exhibit through their own choices, as opposed to being directed through the experience by the exhibit itself.