In the Stanford prison study,male college students agreed to participate in a two-week experiment to discover what would happen when they took on the roles of prisoners and guards.The researchers found that
A)within a short time the prisoners became distressed and panicky,developing emotional symptoms and physical ailments.
B)about 5 percent of the guards became tyrannical,giving the prisoners electric shocks when they were slow in obeying.
C)90 percent of the guards tried to be "tough but fair" and demanded that the tyrannical guards lighten up on the prisoners because it was only an experiment.
D)the study was conducted in an unused wing of a real prison;therefore,the realistic atmosphere enhanced the role behavior of prisoners and guards.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The researchers found that within a short time, the prisoners became distressed and panicky, developing emotional symptoms and physical ailments. This was due to the harsh treatment and abuse they received from the guards. The study demonstrated the powerful influence of situational factors such as the role individuals are assigned to, on their behavior and attitudes.

In the Stanford Prison Study,male College Students Agreed to Participate