Attempt to hide, or censor information has the completely opposite effect
Description
The Streisand effect refers to the phenomenon in which you draw more attention to something by attempting to censor, bury or hide it.
The term earned its name after Barbara Streisand’s unsuccessful lawsuit over photos of her home. The star’s attempt to hide the photos drew more attention to them than if she had left the matter alone.
Research:
The Streisand Effect was named after the American singer Barbara Streisand. When a public photo of her residence in Malibu surfaced, Streisand sued the photographer who took the photo. Once the case reached the media, Streisand’s had 420,000 visitors outside her home in one month.
Application
Controlled Leak Strategy
A company can intentionally 'leak' information about a new product or service with the intention of retracting it. This can create an aura of exclusivity and curiosity around the product, prompting more online discussions and shares. The initial 'leak' could be anything from a product spec sheet, an internal memo, or even a prototype image. When the company attempts to retract the information, it can result in more attention and interest from the public and media, enhancing the product's visibility.
Reverse Psychology in Advertising
Marketers can create campaigns that seem to discourage the audience from sharing or spreading the content, knowing that telling people not to do something often incites them to do exactly that. For instance, an ad could include a message like "Don't share this with anyone." This could pique the audience's interest and lead to increased sharing and discussion, as people become curious about the content that's supposedly 'forbidden' or exclusive.
Mystery and Scandal Tactic
Companies can create a deliberate 'scandal' or mystery surrounding their brand or product. This could be anything from a controversial statement to a mysterious teaser campaign that doesn't reveal much. The key is to generate buzz and encourage people to talk about the brand or product. As people discuss and try to uncover more information, the brand gains more visibility. However, this strategy requires careful handling to ensure the 'scandal' doesn't backfire and harm the brand's reputation.
Examples
