A Lady in Distress: The Flat Tire Experiment
- Author(s):
- Bryan, James H.; Test, Mary Ann
- Publication Year:
- 1966
- Report Number:
- RB-66-45
- Source:
- ETS Research Bulletin
- Document Type:
- Report
- Page Count:
- 10
- Subject/Key Words:
- Altruism., Observational Learning, Pro-social Behavior, Role Models
Abstract
The effects of observing a helping model upon subsequent offers of help were assessed in a naturalistic setting. Passing motorists were exposed to a contrived situation wherein a girl stood beside an auto which had a flat left rear tire. One half of the passing motorists had previously seen a young male helping a girl in a similar situation (model condition); the remaining motorists were not exposed to such helping behaviors. The presence of a model significantly increased the helping behaviors of motorists.
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- http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/j.2333-8504.1966.tb00542.x