Social Influence -> Conformity To Social Roles

Question 1

Social roles

Answer 1

The behaviours expected of an individual who occupies a social position or status. People can conform to the social roles assigned to them.

Question 2

Zimbardo (1973) - Procedure

Answer 2

• Controlled observation
• Mock prison in the basement of Stanford University
• 24 American men were recruited via volunteer sampling
• Participants were randomly assigned to the role of prisoner or guard.
• Prisoners were unexpectedly arrested by real police officers,
• Prisoners had some rights e.g. three meals a day
• Their routine was heavily regulated by the guards.
• Guards were given uniforms and wore reflective sunglasses.
• Guards were told to not physically harm the prisoners.
• Zimbardo took the role of prison superintendent.

Question 3

Zimbardo (1973) - Findings

Answer 3

• Second day: Prisoners tried to rebel.
• Guards became increasingly cruel and aggressive.
• Prisoners became passive and depressed
• The study had to end after six days,

Question 4

Weaknesses of Zimbardo (1973)

Answer 4

• Unethical
• Psychological harm
• Unrepresentative
• Gender bias
• Cultural bias
• Demand characteristics
• Individual differences