Conformity To Social Roles

Question 1

Social roles

Answer 1

• The behaviours expected of an individual who occupies a given social position of status

Question 2

Zimbardo’s prison study- procedure

Answer 2

• He set up a mock prison
• They advertised for students who were emotional stable to volunteer
• The students were randomly assigned to be a prisoner or a guard. The prisoners were arrested from their homes and delivered to the prison. They were then blindfolded, strip-searched, deloused and given a uniform and number
• The guards were given a uniform and were told they had complete power over the prisoners other than injuring them

Question 3

Zimbardo’s prison study- findings

Answer 3

• The guards behaviour became a threat to the prisoner’s psychological and physical health, and as a result the study was ended after 6 days instead of the intended 14 days
• Within 2 days, there was rebellious behaviour in the prisoners. The guards harassed the prisoners and reminded them they were being monitored constantly. They highlighted the difference in social role by creating plenty of opportunities to enforce the rules and punish the smallest misdemeanours
• 1 prisoner was released on the first day after showing signs of psychological disturbance, and 2 more on the fourth day
• The guards identified more and more closely with their role. Their behaviour became more brutal and aggressive, with some of them appearing to enjoy the power they had over the prisoners

Question 4

Zimbardo’s prison study- conclusions

Answer 4

• The simulation revealed the power of the situation to influence people’s behaviour
• Everyone conformed to their roles within the prison. These roles were taken on by the participants