16.2.9

Deindividuation - Diener et al (1976)

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Diener et al (1976) - Trick/Treat Children in the US

Diener et al (1976) investigated the effects of deindividuation on aggression.

Procedure

Procedure

  • Natural experiment.
  • 1,300 children trick or treaters on Halloween were observed.
  • They were in three conditions:
    • Anonymous (e.g. mask).
    • Non-anonymous.
    • Alone or in a group.
  • The children were given the opportunity to steal money and sweets.
Results & conclusions

Results & conclusions

  • Results
    • 57% of those who were anonymous and in a group stole, compared to just 21% that were alone and not anonymous.
  • Conclusion
    • Being anonymous in a group (deindividuation) leads to more antisocial behaviour, as there is less risk of being caught and identified.
Evaluation

Evaluation

  • Strengths
    • Ecologically valid.
    • Practical applications.
  • Limitations
    • Ethics.
    • Demand characteristics and social desirability.
Jump to other topics
1

Social Influence

2

Memory

3

Attachment

4

(2026 Exams) Psychopathology

5

(2027 Exams) Clinical Psychology & Mental Health

6

Approaches in Psychology

7

Biopsychology

8

Research Methods

8.1

Research Methods

8.2

Scientific Processes

8.3

Data Handling & Analysis

8.4

Inferential Testing

9

Issues & Debates in Psychology (A2 only)

10

Option 1: Relationships (A2 only)

10.1

Relationships: Sexual Relationships (A2 only)

10.2

Relationships: Romantic Relationships (A2 only)

10.3

(2026 Exams) Relationships: Virtual (A2 only)

10.4

(2027 Exams) Relationships: Online (A2 only)

11

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12

Option 1: Cognition & Development (A2 only)

13

Option 2: Schizophrenia (A2 only)

14

Option 2: Eating Behaviour (A2 only)

15

Option 2: Stress (A2 only)

16

Option 3: Aggression (A2 only)

17

Option 3: Forensic Psychology (A2 only)

18

Option 3: Addiction (A2 only)

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