ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Marlowe–Crowne Social Desirability Scale

Have you ever heard of a test called the "Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale?" It's a big name, but it's really just a way for scientists to measure if people are telling the truth or if they're trying to look good by answering questions in a way they think others will approve of.

You know how sometimes you might be asked a question, and you think about what the person asking it might want to hear and then you try to give that answer? That's kind of like what the Marlowe-Crowne scale is measuring.

The test asks people questions that might be a little bit personal or embarrassing, and then it measures how honest they are in their answers. This is important because sometimes people might not tell the truth when they are answering questions about themselves. For example, when asked about other people, someone might not want to say negative things.

By knowing if people are being honest when they answer questions, scientists can make sure to get the best information possible. It also helps us to better understand how people feel about certain things, as well as what they generally think is acceptable or not socially acceptable to say or do.