No. #31

Subjective Validation
- Personal Relevance Creates Belief

Subjective validation occurs when two unrelated or even random events are perceived to be related because a personal belief or hypothesis demands it. In product messaging and user experience, this can lead to users forming connections between their experiences and the product that may not be intentionally designed.

Read more on Wikipedia

Product example

Users might believe a health app is effective because they started using it at the same time as making other lifestyle changes.

Empathy tips

1

Awareness and Education

Inform users about how subjective validation can affect their perceptions.

2

Diversified User Testing

Conduct diversified user testing to identify unintended perceived connections.

3

Clear Communication

Ensure product communications clearly explain how features work.

4

Feedback Analysis

Analyze feedback for signs of subjective validation to guide product improvements.

Need an empathic partner?

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Anna Lundqvist
UX & AI ethics expert driving better products and smarter teams.
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Eddy Salzmann
Design lead crafting seamless products and mentoring design teams.
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Ola Möller
Facilitator helping organisations see the big picture and take action.