Stanford Prison Experiment

The Stanford Prison Experiment was a 1971 social psychology study at Stanford University in which college students were assigned the roles of prisoners and guards in a simulated prison.

The Stanford Prison Experiment was a 1971 social psychology study at Stanford University in which college students were assigned the roles of prisoners and guards in a simulated prison. Led by Philip G. Zimbardo, it was intended to examine how social roles and situational pressures influence behaviour. The study was ended early after guard behaviour escalated and the treatment of participants became abusive.

Background

The experiment was designed as a social psychology study of how people respond to prison roles and institutional power. It was funded by the U.S. Office of Naval Research and conducted at Stanford University.

Procedure

Researchers recruited 24 male Stanford students and randomly assigned them to the roles of prisoners or guards. The simulated prison was set up in a university setting to create a realistic environment.

Findings and early termination

As the study progressed, guard behaviour became increasingly harsh and prisoners showed distress. The experiment was stopped after six days rather than the intended two weeks.

Legacy and criticism

The Stanford Prison Experiment became one of the best-known studies in social psychology, but it has also been criticised for ethical problems and for the way its findings have been interpreted. The experiment became widely known in psychology and popular culture and has also been the subject of sustained ethical criticism. It is commonly taught in psychology courses in Canada as a case study in social roles, obedience, and research ethics.