Milgram: Situational Variables - Evaluation

Question 1

What’s a strength of situational variables?

Answer 1

Other studies have demonstrated the same effects

Bickman study: confederates in different outfits (jacket & tie, milkman uniform and secuity guard uniform) asking passers-by to perform tasks like picking up litter

Question 2

What did Bickman study’s conclude?

Answer 2

People were 2x as likely to help them when dressed as a security guard rather when in a jacket & tie

Supports the Milgram’s conclusion for uniform

Question 3

What’s another strength of situational variables?

Answer 3

Findings replicated in other cultures

Miranda et al found in obedience rating of over 90% in spanish students
= valid across cultures and genders

Question 4

What is a limitation regarding validity of Milgram’s study?

Answer 4

Lack of internal validity, participants may have realized the procedure was fake

Orne and Holland stated participants worked out the procedures was fake in milgram’s original study, more likely in variations
- unclear whether results are due to demand characteristics

Question 5

What is a limitation related to the cultural context of Milgram’s replications?

Answer 5

Most replications occurred in western, developed societies that are not that culturally different from america

This means findings may not be universally applicable.