Task perceptions and behavioural expectations: A process-oriented approach to subject behaviour in experiments.

Because of its emphasis on the documentation of artifact, previous research on the social psychology of the psychological experiment has not appreciably advanced understanding of S behavior. Prior research has tried to classify Ss' behavior as representing 1 of 4 preconceived roles that presumably bias data. The present study, in contrast, used an approach that regarded Ss' behavior as an integral part of the process of experimentation and attempted to explore Ss' perceptions of the dimensions relevant to experimental behavior. Specifically, this approach conceived of a single, multidimensional S role and viewed Ss' reactions as natural and legitimate within the experimental situation as it was experienced. Data from 858 college students are presented that identify some dimensions of Ss' perceptions of experimental tasks and their expected behaviors. The interrelationship of the behavioral expectations and task perceptions suggests that this process-oriented approach may provide a more constructive alternative to prevailing theory and research on the social psychology of the experiment. (French abstract) (18 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)