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HomeHomework HelppsychologyStanford Prison Experiment

Stanford Prison Experiment

The Stanford Prison Experiment was a psychological study conducted in 1971 by Philip Zimbardo that investigated the effects of perceived power by assigning college students to play the roles of prisoners and guards in a simulated prison environment. The experiment revealed how situational forces and authority dynamics can lead to extreme behavior, raising ethical concerns about the treatment of participants.

intermediate
2 hours
Psychology
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Overview

The Stanford Prison Experiment, conducted by Philip Zimbardo in 1971, aimed to explore the psychological effects of perceived power by simulating a prison environment. Participants were assigned roles as guards or prisoners, leading to unexpected and extreme behaviors. The study revealed how quickly...

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Key Terms

Social Psychology
The study of how people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others.

Example: Social psychology helps explain why people conform to group norms.

Authority
The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.

Example: In the experiment, guards were given authority over prisoners.

Role-Playing
Acting out or performing the part of a character or role.

Example: Participants role-played as guards or prisoners in the experiment.

Informed Consent
The process of obtaining permission from participants after informing them of the study's purpose and potential risks.

Example: Informed consent was not adequately obtained in the Stanford Prison Experiment.

Psychological Harm
Emotional or mental distress caused by an experience.

Example: Some participants experienced psychological harm during the experiment.

Ethics
Moral principles that govern a person's behavior or conducting an activity.

Example: Ethics in research ensures the safety and well-being of participants.

Related Topics

Milgram Experiment
A study on obedience to authority, where participants were instructed to administer shocks to others.
intermediate
Bystander Effect
A social psychological phenomenon where individuals are less likely to help a victim when others are present.
intermediate
Cognitive Dissonance
The mental discomfort experienced when holding two conflicting beliefs or values.
intermediate

Key Concepts

social psychologyauthorityrole-playingethical considerations