Confirmation Bias

by Nick Malakhow

TEN MINUTE: In the mid-1950’s, psychologist Evelyn Hooker conducted a comparative study of 60 gay and straight men in her home which, ultimately, helped to pave the way to the broad acceptance that homosexuality was not a pathology or mental illness. In this imagined scene, David, who was promised anonymity as part of this study, nervously contemplates whether or not to follow through on his meeting with Dr...

TEN MINUTE: In the mid-1950’s, psychologist Evelyn Hooker conducted a comparative study of 60 gay and straight men in her home which, ultimately, helped to pave the way to the broad acceptance that homosexuality was not a pathology or mental illness. In this imagined scene, David, who was promised anonymity as part of this study, nervously contemplates whether or not to follow through on his meeting with Dr. Hooker when a second man unexpectedly arrives.

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Confirmation Bias

Recommended by

  • Tom Moran: Confirmation Bias by Nick Malakhow
    “

    A poignant encounter between two well-drawn characters at a pivotal moment, this epitomizes what a 10-minute play can accomplish. Wholly believable and quite engrossing.

    A poignant encounter between two well-drawn characters at a pivotal moment, this epitomizes what a 10-minute play can accomplish. Wholly believable and quite engrossing.

    ”
  • Curtis Barber: Confirmation Bias by Nick Malakhow
    “

    First off, love the language of CONFIRMATION BIAS. It feels fresh and contemporary, while still being rooted in the time period. A fascinating imagined scene between two men and the distance between their lifestyles and freedoms. Chuck is freely out, while David is guarded and skittish.

    First off, love the language of CONFIRMATION BIAS. It feels fresh and contemporary, while still being rooted in the time period. A fascinating imagined scene between two men and the distance between their lifestyles and freedoms. Chuck is freely out, while David is guarded and skittish.

    ”
  • Paul Donnelly: Confirmation Bias by Nick Malakhow
    “

    The anxiety and contortions required to remain in the closet are compellingly illustrated in this portrait of an important moment in queer history. Hooker's study broke new ground among mental health professionals and we see here just how much courage it took for gay men to participate.

    The anxiety and contortions required to remain in the closet are compellingly illustrated in this portrait of an important moment in queer history. Hooker's study broke new ground among mental health professionals and we see here just how much courage it took for gay men to participate.

    ”
View all 34 recommendations

Production History

  • Professional, Studio Theatre Tierra del Sol, 2021
  • University, SUNY Plattsburgh, 2021
  • Fringe, Open Theatre Project, 2019