Problem
Researchers conducted an experiment on the psychological phenomenon known as compliance. They chose subjects in a museum setting. 89 subjects were randomly selected and then randomly assigned to one of four conditions. All individuals were told the museum needed money due to budget cuts.
1) In the control condition, patrons of the museum were asked to donate $1.00 as they exited.
2) In another condition, patrons of the museum were first asked to sign a petition to support the museum as they entered. Then, as they exited (approximately 45 minutes later), the subjects were asked to donate $1.00
3) In another condition, patrons of the museum were asked if they would donate $5.00 to the museum as they exited. If they refused the request, they were asked to donate $1.00
4) In another condition, as patrons were leaving, they were asked if they would donate 75 cents to the museum. As they reached for their money, they were then told, "we are also asking for an additional 25 cents for the children's programs".
Part I:
Apply the three compliance techniques to each of the conditions as they fit. Explain why you chose to apply the technique to the condition.
Part II:
|
Groups
|
% of subjects who gave money
|
|
Control Condition
|
73%
|
|
Petition Condition
|
53%
|
|
$5.00 Condition
|
86%
|
|
75 cents condition
|
93%
|
What conclusions can the researchers draw about the variables and conditions in the study? Was one technique more successful and one less successful? Which ones and why do you think that is?