The Stanford Prison Experiment Showed How Quickly People Adopt Roles
Psychology

The Stanford Prison Experiment Showed How Quickly People Adopt Roles

In 1971, psychologist Philip Zimbardo randomly assigned college students to roles as prisoners or guards in a mock prison. Within just six days, the experiment had to be stopped: 'guards' became sadistic and abusive, while 'prisoners' suffered genuine psychological breakdowns. The experiment demonstrated how powerfully situational roles and authority can override individual morality — though the study's methods have since been heavily criticized for ethical violations.

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Published
April 8, 2026
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PsychologyScience & HealthHistory

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