bocchiaro (2012) disobedience and whistle-blowing

Question 1

research method

Answer 1

lab exp or ‘scenario study’ due to no IV. The study took place in a laboratory at the VU University in Amsterdam, so conditions could be controlled eg the procedure was standardised so
the experimenter-authority behaviour and cover story were consistent throughout the experimental period.
Data was gathered on the number of participants who obeyed by writing a statement in support of the sensory deprivation study; those who
disobeyed by refusing to write the requested statement and those who became whistle blowers by reporting the experimenter’s questionable
conduct to the Research Committee.

Question 2

sample

Answer 2

149 undergrads (96 female, 53 men). take part for €7 or course credit.
11 p's removed due to their suspicion of study

Question 3

outline procedure

Answer 3

Eight pilot tests, involving 92 undergraduates from the VU University in Amsterdam, were conducted to ensure the procedure was credible and morally acceptable.
p’s had to volunteer friends or just students from their uni to partake in this ‘sensory deprivation study’

Question 4

conclusions

Answer 4

People tend to obey authority figures, even if the authority is unjust

Individuals behave in completely different ways than expected when they find themselves in certain circumstances that are unfamiliar and somewhat
extreme