Walster and Festinger conducted an experiment in which subjects "overheard" a conversation between two graduate students, one of whom expressed an opinion on a certain issue. Subjects' opinions were influenced by the graduate student's opinion when:
A) the graduate student had previously performed a favor for the subject
B) the subject believed the graduate students were unaware of his or her presence
C) the graduate student was an expert on the issue in question
D) the graduate student presented a two-sided argument regarding the issue in question

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The experiment was designed so that the subjects believed they were overhearing a genuine conversation between two graduate students. The key factor that influenced the subjects' opinions was whether they believed the graduate students were aware of their presence or not. When the subjects believed they were overhearing a private conversation, they were more likely to be influenced by the graduate student's opinion. This is known as the "overheard" condition of the experiment. When the subjects believed the graduate students knew they were being overheard, they were less likely to be influenced by the opinion expressed. This is known as the "non-overheard" condition. Therefore, choice B is the best answer.

Walster and Festinger Conducted an Experiment in Which Subjects "Overheard