What type of ethical violations were identified in the Stanford Prison Experiment?

The identification of physical and psychological harm in the Stanford Prison Experiment highlights one of the most critical ethical violations in research involving human subjects. Conducted in 1971 by psychologist Philip Zimbardo, this study aimed to examine the psychological effects of perceived power by assigning participants to roles of prisoners and guards in a simulated prison environment.

As the experiment progressed, it became evident that the participants, particularly those assigned the role of guards, exhibited abusive behaviors, leading to severe emotional distress for those playing prisoners. This situation resulted in instances of physical intimidation and psychological torment, raising significant concerns about the wellbeing and rights of the individuals involved.

The ethical implications of these harms prompt a broader discussion about the necessity of safeguarding participants in research, such as ensuring informed consent and the right to withdraw from a study at any time. The Stanford Prison Experiment serves as a cautionary tale in the field of research ethics, underscoring the importance of prioritizing participant safety and mental health above experimental objectives.