The Stanford Prison Experiment (1971) seemingly showed that normal people could become cruel when given power in an institutional role. However, recent investigations revealed that guards were coached to be harsh, participants reported playing to cameras, and the study lacked controls. Some psychologists now argue the study demonstrates demand characteristics—participants doing what they think experimenters want—rather than inherent human psychology.
It can be inferred from the text that
the Stanford Prison Experiment was conducted with rigorous methodology
all conclusions from psychology experiments should be accepted without scrutiny
the interpretation of classic studies can change as methodological details emerge
recent investigations confirmed the original interpretation of the study
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. New information about methods changed interpretations.
- Context clues: Original interpretation: inherent cruelty; new evidence reveals coaching and performance for cameras.
- Meaning: Previously unknown methodological problems changed what the study shows.
- Verify: The shift from 'inherent psychology' to 'demand characteristics' is a major reinterpretation.
đź’ˇ Strategy: When new evidence about methods changes conclusions, infer interpretation depends on methodological details.
Choice A is incorrect because the study "lacked controls" and guards "were coached." Choice B is incorrect because scrutiny revealed significant problems with this classic study. Choice D is incorrect because recent investigations challenged the original interpretation.