Question
2. How might the Stanford prison experiment have shown in-group bias, out-group homogeneity, and out-group derogation?Describe what each is,and then give an example from the experiment. (10 points)
Answer
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Ingrid
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
The Stanford Prison Experiment, conducted by Philip Zimbardo in 1971, demonstrated various psychological phenomena, including in-group bias, out-group homogeneity, and out-group derogation.1. **In-group Bias:** - Definition: In-group bias refers to the tendency of individuals to favor members of their own group over those in other groups. - Example from the Stanford Prison Experiment: Guards and prisoners quickly developed distinct group identities. Guards, feeling superior, began to treat prisoners harshly, showing a clear in-group bias towards their own role.2. **Out-group Homogeneity:** - Definition: Out-group homogeneity is the perception that members of other groups are more similar to each other than members of one's own group. - Example from the Stanford Prison Experiment: Guards perceived prisoners as a homogeneous group with similar negative traits. This generalization led to a lack of differentiation among the prisoners and contributed to the harsh treatment they received.3. **Out-group Derogation:** - Definition: Out-group derogation involves the negative stereotyping and discrimination against members of another group. - Example from the Stanford Prison Experiment: Guards derogated prisoners by subjecting them to degrading and humiliating conditions. This mistreatment was fueled by the guards' negative perceptions of the prisoners as an out-group.In summary, the Stanford Prison Experiment illustrated how the artificial division of participants into guards and prisoners quickly led to the emergence of in-group bias, out-group homogeneity, and out-group derogation, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of group behavior and social identity.