Milgram’s study

When was Milgram's study?

1963

Who researched whether people would obey unjust orders from a legitimate authority figure?

Milgram (1963)

Aim of Milgram (1963)

Investigate if ordinary people would follow an unjust order from a legitimate authority figure

What sampling technique did Milgram (1963) use?

Volunteer sampling

Who were the Ps in Milgram (1963)?

40 male Americans

Milgram (1963) Ps was 40

male Americans

What type of experiment was Milgram (1963)?

Lab experiment

Method of Milgram (1963)

-2 confederates (learner + researcher)

-Real P role of teacher

-P told to shock learner every time he made a mistake recalling a list of words

-Voltage increased each time mistake was made

-Continued until P refused to continue or reached max voltage of 450

Results of Milgram (1963)

All Ps went to at least 350 volts

64% went to full 450 volts

Qualitative data of Ps showing signs of distress and tension

How many Ps went to at least 350 volts?

All Ps

What voltage did all Ps in Milgram (1963) go to?

At least 350

What was the max voltage in Milgram (1963)?

450 Volts

How many Ps went to the max 450 Volts in Milgram (1963)?

65%

What did 65% of Ps do in Milgram (1963)?

Went to the max 450 volts

What qualitative data was collected in Milgram (1963)?

Ps showed signs of tension and distress

Conclusion of Milgram (1963)

Under the right situational conditions people will obey unjust orders from a legitimate authority figure

What 2 things did Milgram (1963) do after the study?

Debriefed Ps

Sent a follow up questionnaire and 84% said they were glad to participate

Did Milgram debrief his Ps after?

Yes

3 limitations of Milgram (1963)

Lacks ecological validity

Lacks population validity

Broke ethical guidelines

What does Milgram's study support?

Situational explanation of obedience

Issue of Milgram using a situational explanation of obedience

Seen as an excuse for evil behaviour

David Mandel sees it as offensive to victims of the Nazis

Who studied obedience?

Milgram