Experts break down psychology of The Traitors historic victory, road to the finale and tactics for future contestants

In the latest instalment of The Psychology Of... The Traitors podcast Dr Kevin Hochard, Head of Psychology at the University is joined by Forensic Psychology Lecturer Connor Pell and Senior Lecturer Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz to discuss episodes 10, 11 and 12 of season four of the BBC phenomenon which pits traitors against faithfuls.

They react to the climax of the record-breaking show and the journey to the high-stakes win which saw two traitors succeed and share the prize money for the first time in its history. The team also looks ahead to the next celebrity season.

In the recently released podcast episode, the team discusses, and suggests future contestants could take note of:

• Bonding - how the missions helped push the team together to make the final episode more emotionally tough for the players.
• The importance of the likeability of the players and how it is a game of personality - people will believe those they like and are more likely to vote with them.
• The co-operation between traitors - how a tit-for-tat strategy was in play where Stephen and Rachel replicated each other’s behaviour from throwing suspicion on their fellow traitor to their voting - maintaining a balance of power.
• The effects of stress and survival mode - which could be why faithfuls failed to notice slip-ups such as a Rachel referring to herself as a traitor.
• The power of observation - the influence of how the players could be perceived after the show ends, on their actions.
• How consistency is crucial in the game, including how James’ impulsivity made others doubt him.

Considering The Celebrity Traitors season two, the team throws names they would like to see play the game into the mix, including Richard Ayoade, Danny Dyer and Olivia Colman.

Kevin said: “It has been an amazing series, ending with a gripping first in a duo of traitors acting faithful to one another.

“From loyalty, trust and co-operation to lying and manipulation, it has again shed an enthralling light on human behaviour, and given future contestants a lot to take on board.

“We are really looking forward to The Celebrity Traitors season two, and enjoying watching and sharing our take on the tactics as the game play unfolds with a new group of traitorous and faithful players - while fame adds that extra dimension.”

To listen to the latest podcast, visit: The Psychology Of...The Traitors - UK Season 4 Episode 10-12 podcast on Spotify.

Previous episodes are also available on the Psychology Of… Spotify profile.

Image: From left to right: Dr Kevin Hochard, Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz and Connor Pell .