Ella Collins investigates some unethical practices in psychological experiments in the past.
The ‘Little Albert’ Experiment
Who? Conducted by the pioneering psychologist John B. Watson, who is remembered for his crucial role in developing our knowledge of behaviour. Controversially, the subject of the experiment dubbed, ‘Albert B’ was only 9 months old, so could not consent for himself.
Why? This notorious experiment sought to display how powerful emotions were not inherent to human beings but were learned responses to our experiences.
Where? John Hopkins University.
What? ‘Albert B’ would play with white furry objects, causing a joyful response. Over time Dr Watson would make noises behind the toddler’s head to frighten him. After several trials, Albert had become conditioned to feel afraid when he saw white furry objects.
Impact? While the ‘Little Albert’ experiment was monumental in discovering more about human behaviour, it also unintentionally challenged ethical concerns of experiments at the time, particularly on children so young.
Stanford Prison Experiment
Who? American psychologist and professor, Phillip Zimbardo.
Why? To explore how people’s behaviours change when put in positions of power and control.
Where? The basement of Stanford University
What? An extreme, controversial study where college students were divided into prisoners or guards and placed in a simulated prison setting where guards had all the control. This experiment included doing dehumanizing things such as assigning numbers to people. As the study progressed, the guards’ harassment and physical intimidation only worsened. While it was planned to last for 2 weeks, it was cut short after 6 days due to prisoners experiencing high levels of emotional distress and anxiety.
Impact? This study highlighted how situational factors can lead everyday people to engage in cruel behaviour when given the power to do so. This has sparked broader conversations about prison reform, increasing awareness of the psychological impact of incarceration, focusing on supporting inmates’ mental health and reducing violence.
The Robbers’ Cave Experiment
Who? Psychologist, Muzafer Sherif and his team of researchers.
Why? To study intergroup conflict and the effects of competition vs cooperation on group behaviours.
Where? Robbers’ Cave State Park, Oklahoma.
What? In this experiment a group of boys who had never met, aged 11-12 were divided into two groups – the ‘Eagles and the ‘Rattlers’, and competition was introduced to create conflict, then using cooperative tasks to reduce hostility and improve inter-group relationships.
Impact? This research highlighted issues of informed consent in psychological research and is criticised for intentionally creating hostility and distress between the young boys causing a considerable amount of emotional harm. This was worsened by the lack of counselling and support provided.
