Lesson 4 - Conformity to social roles Flashcards
What was the procedure for Zimbardo’s study?
He created a simulated prison. Recruited 24 emotionally and physically able men, and randomly assigned them a role of either prisoner or guard.
What did Zimbardo find?
On 2nd day prisoners tried to rebel, so guards stripped them naked and put some in solitary. Over next days guards became more aggressive and prisoners more depressed. Guards forced them to do mundane tasks, such as continuous push ups. Study was stopped after 6 days to protect health of prisoners. FOUND PEOPLE DO CONFORM TO SOCIAL ROLES
What is a negative of Zimbardos study?
Highly unethical - prisoners were subjected to psychological harm
What is another negative of Zimbardos study?
Sample was unrepresentative, all but one where white males. Therefore lacks gender and cultural bias.
What is a strength of Zimbardos study?
The study can be applied to Abu Gharaib. Where US military were abusive to prisoners and violated a lot of human rights laws. Shows how this can occur due to adopting the role of being a guard.
What did Zimbardo want to study?
Whether individuals would conform to behaviours exhibited by social roles.
