Friday the 13th Superstition

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Questions and Answers

What is the term for the fear of the number 13?

  • Triskaidekaphobia (correct)
  • Decaphobia
  • Hendecaphobia
  • Dodecaphobia

According to Thomas Fernsler, why does the number 13 have a bad reputation?

  • It is considered a prime number
  • It represents the number of witches in a coven
  • It follows the 'complete' number 12 (correct)
  • It is associated with the crucifixion of Jesus

What is Donald Dossey's theory regarding the number 13's unlucky association?

  • It is derived from ancient Roman numerals
  • It originates from a Scandinavian legend involving Loki (correct)
  • It is related to the story of Adam and Eve
  • It stems from the Code of Hammurabi.

Which biblical event is NOT associated with Friday in the content?

<p>The Great Flood (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Approximately how much money do US businesses lose on Friday the 13th due to people avoiding work, travel, and big purchases?

<p>$900 million (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to a 2008 study cited, what is one unexpected outcome observed on Friday the 13th compared to other Fridays?

<p>There are fewer traffic accidents (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely reason that people in high-risk jobs fear Friday the 13th?

<p>The apprehension often leads to accidents (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the Scandinavian legend mentioned, what role did Loki play that contributed to the unluckiness associated with the number 13?

<p>He instigated the death of a god, disrupting the gathering. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If someone suffers from triskaidekaphobia and paraskevidekatriaphobia, what specific anxiety might they experience on a given day?

<p>Severe anxiety specifically on Friday the 13th (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A retailer decides to offer a 13% discount on all items every Friday the 13th. Which psychological principle are they LEAST likely trying to leverage to attract customers, given the information in the passage?

<p>Reinforcing loss aversion, by making customers feel like they are avoiding a potential financial loss. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Triskaidekaphobia

Fear of the number 13.

Norse Legend and 13

A Norse legend where Loki caused the death of Balder.

Friday's Negative Associations

Friday is associated with negative events in the Bible, including the crucifixion of Jesus.

Fear of Friday the 13th

Anxiety and fear experienced by millions on Friday the 13th.

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Economic Impact of Friday the 13th

Businesses lose revenue as people avoid shopping, traveling, or working.

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Safety on Friday the 13th

Fewer traffic accidents, fires, and thefts occur on Friday the 13th.

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Study Notes

  • Millions fear Friday the 13th, deeming it the unluckiest day.
  • The origin of this superstition is unclear.

Fear of the Number 13

  • The fear of the number 13 is known as "triskaidekaphobia".
  • Thomas Fernsler believes that 13's bad reputation stems from following the "complete" number 12.
  • There are 12 months, 12 zodiac signs and 12 apostles of Jesus.

Folklore

  • Donald Dossey suggests a Scandinavian legend as the source of the superstition.
  • The legend involves 12 Norse gods at dinner being interrupted by Loki, who tricked Hoder into killing Balder.
  • To this day, many people avoid having 13 guests at parties.

Friday's Negative Associations

  • Jesus was crucified on a Friday.
  • Biblical scholars also believe Eve tempted Adam with the forbidden fruit on a Friday.
  • Cain killed Abel on a Friday the 13th.

Impact and Reality

  • Over 20 million Americans experience anxiety on Friday the 13th.
  • Apprehension can lead to accidents, especially in high-risk jobs.
  • Businesses lose about $900 million on Friday the 13th due to people avoiding work, travel, and purchases.
  • A 2008 study indicated fewer traffic accidents and lower reports of fires and thefts on Friday the 13th.
  • Some businesses offer discounts on this day.

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