Final answer:
The Stanford Prison Experiment conducted by Philip Zimbardo revealed the significant influence of social roles on human behavior. The study showed that participants assigned as guards displayed abusive behavior, while those assigned as prisoners experienced severe anxiety. The experiment was halted after six days due to the negative outcomes and deterioration of participant behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The results of the Stanford Prison Experiment conducted by social psychologist Philip Zimbardo were highly significant. The study demonstrated the powerful influence of social roles on human behavior. The participants who were assigned to the role of guards displayed abusive and sadistic behavior, while those assigned to the role of prisoners experienced severe anxiety and hopelessness, tolerating the abuse from the guards.
This experiment revealed how deeply individuals can be influenced by the roles they are assigned, even in a simulated setting. It highlighted the importance of considering the impact of social roles and environment on individual behavior. The study was halted prematurely after only six days due to the negative outcomes and deteriorating behavior of the participants.
Overall, the Stanford Prison Experiment underscores the significance of social psychology in understanding human behavior and the potential dangers of power dynamics within institutions.