What psychological state did many prisoners display during Zimbardo's experiment?

During Zimbardo's experiment, many prisoners exhibited depression and submissiveness, which are indicative of a psychological state commonly seen in situations of severe oppression or when individuals are placed in harsh, dehumanizing environments. This reaction is largely due to the power dynamics established in the simulated prison setting, where the guards held significant authority over the prisoners. Many participants internalized their roles, leading to feelings of helplessness and emotional distress.

The environment created by Zimbardo encouraged prisoners to feel oppressed and demoralized, resulting in a decline in their mental state reflecting anxiety and depression rather than rebellion or aggression. The loss of identity and autonomy experienced by the prisoners contributed to their submissive behaviors, as they felt powerless to challenge the authority of the guards. Overall, this psychological state underscores the impact of a structured power imbalance and extreme situational factors on human behavior.