Zimbardo conformity to social roles (AO1)

Question 1

What was the aim of the experiment?

Answer 1

Zimbardo et al (1973) set up a mock prison in the basement of a psychology department to see the effect of social roles on conformity

Question 2

Who was used?

Answer 2

21 male student volunteers, selected by psychological testing showing them to be emotionally stable. They were randomly allocated the role of guard or prisoner

Question 3

How were social roles encouraged?

Answer 3

[Uniform] - prisoners were strip searched, given a uniform and a number (no names) this encouraged de-individualisation. Guards had own rules with uniform, handcuffs etc

[Instructions about behaviour] - prisoners were told they could not leave but would have to ask for parole, guards were told they had complete power over prisoners

Question 4

Findings 1

Answer 4

The guards played their roles enthusiastically and treated prisoners harshly. Prisoners rebelled withing 2 days - ripping uniforms, shouting and cussing at guard. Guards retaliated with fire extinguishers and harassed prisoners, [reminder of their powerless role] (eg frequent head counts, including at night, and being forced to clean toilets with bare hands)

Question 5

Findings 2

Answer 5

[Guards behaviour threatened prisoners psychological and physical health]:

-After the rebellion was put down, prisoners became subdued, anxious and depressed

-3 prisoners were released early because they showed signs of psychological disturbance

-One prisoners went on hunger strike, the guards tried to force feed him and punished him by putting him in a tiny dark closet

Study was stopped after 6 days

Question 6

Conclusion

Answer 6

Social roles have a strong influence on behaviour - most conformed strongly to their role. Guards became brutal, prisoners became submissive

Question 7

Where was the experiment?

Answer 7

Stanford University, psychology department basement, mock prison