When Students Were Held as "Prisoners" in the Stanford Prison

question 108

Essay

When students were held as "prisoners" in the Stanford prison study, how did they respond during the first days of the experiment? Why did the researchers end the study at Day 6, instead of Day 14 as initially planned?

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Definitions:

Specialized Knowledge

Expertise or skill in a specific area or field, typically acquired through training or experience, that sets individuals apart in their professional capabilities.

Self-managed Teams

Groups of employees who are given the authority and responsibility to manage themselves and make decisions about their work without direct supervision.

Decision Making

The mental act of choosing an option from a range of possible actions.

Legitimate Power

The power a person receives as a result of his or her position in the formal hierarchy of an organization.