milgrams obedience experiment- situational variables Flashcards
what are the 6 AO1 points you should know for situational variables that affect conformity?
-Definition of Situational Variables:
-Proximity – Physical Closeness of Authority Figure
-Proximity – Closeness of the Victim (Learner)
-Location – Change of Setting
-Uniform – Experimenter Wearing a Lab Coat
-Conclusion – Situational Factors and Obedience
What are situational variables in Milgram’s obedience study?
Situational variables refer to factors related to the environment or context that affect obedience, as opposed to dispositional factors (personality traits).
How did proximity to the authority figure affect obedience?
When the experimenter gave instructions via phone instead of being in the same room, obedience dropped from 65% to 22.5%, showing physical proximity increases obedience.
How did proximity to the victim (learner) affect obedience?
When the learner was in the same room, obedience dropped to 40%, showing that closer proximity to the victim reduces obedience.
How did a change in location affect obedience?
When the study moved from Yale University to a run-down office building, obedience decreased from 65% to 47.5%, showing that a prestigious location increases obedience.
How did the uniform of the authority figure affect obedience?
When the experimenter wore a lab coat, obedience was high at 65%. When replaced by a person in casual clothes, obedience dropped to 20%, showing the importance of uniform in conveying authority.
What did Milgram conclude about situational variables and obedience?
Milgram concluded that situational factors, such as proximity, location, and uniform, significantly affect obedience. These variables can either increase or decrease the likelihood of obeying authority.
