This is a classic setup for a psychology experiment, likely studying self-perception, self-efficacy, or the effects of praise and failure on self-esteem.
Here's a breakdown:
1. Initial success: The boy completes the first puzzle quickly and receives praise, boosting his confidence and self-perception.
2. Subsequent failure: He struggles with the next four puzzles, despite his initial success, which creates a sense of surprise and disappointment.
3. Questioning: The researcher asks about his self-evaluation and effort in various areas, likely to assess how he perceives his abilities and how the experience has affected his self-esteem.
4. Debriefing: The researcher reveals the puzzles were designed to be difficult, aiming to alleviate any negative feelings and reframe the experience.
The experiment might be investigating how people, especially children, respond to success and failure, and how it influences their self-perception and motivation.
