The Oxford Dictionary defines social psychology as “the branch of psychology that deals with social interactions, including their origins and their effects on the individual.”. This means the study of how individuals and groups communicate, relate and act towards others as well as where certain behaviour/attitudes originated and how they developed and ultimately their effects. This particular branch of psychology is of utmost importance as with greater understanding, psychologists and professionals are better equipped to recognise patterns, indicators and responses and act accordingly for the benefit others.
In 1971, Philip Zimbardo, funded by the US Office of Naval Research, conducted a psychological experiment to determine how average members of society with no history of psychological problems, criminal histories or substance misuse issues would react to the adoption of role of either prison guard or prisoner. The experiment took place in Stanford University, California, USA which had been converted, for all intents and purposes into what appeared to be a functioning prison.
The results of the experiment were more dramatic than even Zimbardo could have predicted. Though it was expected to run for between 7 to 14 days, the experiment was terminated after 6 days for the safety and well being of those posing as inmates. …show more content…
Conversely in actuality, most people, particularly those in contact with psychologists, social workers and similar professionals may have tendencies towards all of the above. Therefore it is important that when interacting with service users, that their circumstance and state of mind is considered in addition to noting the ease at which those without similar vulnerabilities are subjective to particular
In 1971, Philip Zimbardo, funded by the US Office of Naval Research, conducted a psychological experiment to determine how average members of society with no history of psychological problems, criminal histories or substance misuse issues would react to the adoption of role of either prison guard or prisoner. The experiment took place in Stanford University, California, USA which had been converted, for all intents and purposes into what appeared to be a functioning prison.
The results of the experiment were more dramatic than even Zimbardo could have predicted. Though it was expected to run for between 7 to 14 days, the experiment was terminated after 6 days for the safety and well being of those posing as inmates. …show more content…
Conversely in actuality, most people, particularly those in contact with psychologists, social workers and similar professionals may have tendencies towards all of the above. Therefore it is important that when interacting with service users, that their circumstance and state of mind is considered in addition to noting the ease at which those without similar vulnerabilities are subjective to particular