In a Field Experiment (Baron, 1976) to Study Drivers' Responses

question 165

Multiple Choice

In a field experiment (Baron, 1976) to study drivers' responses to a car that hesitated when a stoplight turned green, the researcher found that when a confederate hobbled across the street on crutches in front of the lead car in the intersection, fewer drivers behind the lead car honked their horns.According to this research, why was that? Drivers at the rear

• A) were given a situational attribution for the lead driver's hesitation.
• B) felt empathy for the confederate, which inhibited their aggression.
• C) were distracted by the sight of a person on crutches.
• D) forgot all about their own troubles.

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Definitions:

Referent Power

Power derived from being well liked by others.

Legitimate Power

A form of authority where power is granted through societal structures, titles, or positions, deemed appropriate and recognized by those governed.

Employee Effectiveness

The extent to which employees successfully achieve the goals and objectives of the organization.

Power Holder

An individual or group that possesses and exercises authority or influence over others in a particular context.