Allport & Postman (1947)

Question 1

Where can this study be used? (3)

Answer 1

Schemas
Reconstructive Memory
Effects of stereotypes

Question 2

Aim

Answer 2

To see the effect of schemas on recall

Question 3

Participants

Answer 3

Black and white Americans

Question 4

Method

Answer 4

• White participants were shown picture of an argument with a well-dressed black man and a white man with a razor
• Participants passed the story to each other through serial reproduction (telephone/Chinese whispers game)
• Repeated the same methodology with black participants

Question 5

Results

Answer 5

Schemas and stereotypes might have an effect on recall
* White participants: after a few retellings, the story had changed so that the black man was the aggressor, holding the knife
* Black Participants: there were more correct observations from the black participants in relation to the picture showed to them

Question 6

Limitations (2)

Answer 6

• Similar as to studies on schemas, there was no actual confirmation of the participant’s schema/stereotype prior to the study
• Artificial setting → low ecological validity

Question 7

Strengths (2)

Answer 7

• Results are still relevant today
  
  • Several studies have shown that the race of an alleged criminal influences memory of a weapon.
  • Highlights how serious effect of stereotypes can be
• Standardized procedure + easy replication