Table 3. Some of the frequent nocebo words and sentences identified in the study (n= 153).
Nocebo words and sentences | Categorization (13–17) |
Do not worry, everything will be fine. |
Counterproductive negation |
Do not be afraid | - |
There will not be any problem | - |
There is no danger, it just a small operation | - |
You will not have pain | - |
There is no risk to life | - |
The injection will hurt a bit | Emphasizing the negative |
There may be just a small bleeding | - |
Tell me if you have any pain |
Focusing attention on the negatives |
Are you experiencing any nausea or vertigo? | - |
Is your heart sinking? | - |