Individuals who are part of a research team and are instructed to behave in a specific way during an experiment are known as actors in psychological studies. These individuals, while appearing to be ordinary participants, are knowledgeable about the experiment’s design and are actively involved in manipulating the social situation. For example, in a study examining conformity, these individuals might intentionally provide incorrect answers to see if the genuine participant will follow suit.
The utilization of these individuals allows researchers to control variables and create realistic social situations that might be difficult or impossible to generate otherwise. This approach allows observation of specific behaviors in a standardized setting. Historically, their use has facilitated critical insights into various social psychological phenomena, including obedience, bystander intervention, and attitude formation, though their deployment also raises ethical considerations that must be carefully addressed through informed consent and debriefing procedures.
