Disadvantages

■ Depending on the skill of the testing staff, the control room setup can create a very impersonal environment. This is sometimes referred to as the "guinea pig" syndrome, with the participant feeling overly self-conscious during the test. (This effect can be exacerbated by the type of intercom system used, some of which make the test moderator's instructions sound like the "voice of God.") This self-consciousness is worse for less sophisticated (in terms of exposure to high-tech equip- ment) participants who are insecure about their abilities. The test moderator may need to mitigate the effects of this setup by staying in the room with a less sophisticated participant.