Situational Variables of Obedience

• One strength of the situational variables of obedience is that Milgram's findings have been replicated across cultures. A researcher used a more realistic procedure than Milgram's to study Dutch ppts. Ppts were ordered to say stressful things in an interview to confederates who were desperate for a job. Findings show that 90% of ppts obeyed. Additionally, a researcher replicated Milgram's variation of proximity. Findings show that when the person giving the orders was absent, obedience decreased.
• One strength of the situational variables of obedience is that there is research support. A researcher had 3 confederates who were all dressed differently. For example, one was dressed in a jacket and tie another was dressed as a milkman, and the last was dressed in a security guard's uniform. Confederates stood on the streets and asked people to perform tasks like picking up litter. Findings show that people were 2x more likely to obey the confederate dressed as a security guard.