description Harry Harlow Overview
Harry Harlow (1905-1981) was an American psychologist known for research on attachment and social development using rhesus macaques. His surrogate-mother experiments showed that infant monkeys generally preferred a soft cloth figure over a wire figure that supplied food, supporting the importance of contact comfort in attachment. His later isolation studies were influential but are now widely criticized for the severe distress inflicted on the animals.
help Harry Harlow FAQ
What is Harry Harlow famous for in psychology?
Harry Harlow was an American psychologist famous for his surrogate-mother experiments using rhesus macaques in the 1950s. His research demonstrated the importance of caregiving and companionship in social and cognitive development.
What did Harry Harlow's monkey experiment prove?
Harlow's experiments showed that infant monkeys generally preferred a soft cloth figure over a wire figure that supplied food. This supported the theory that attachment is based on comfort and tactile stimulation rather than just nourishment.
When did Harry Harlow conduct his research?
Harlow conducted his most famous attachment studies during his tenure at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the late 1950s and 1960s. He lived from 1905 to 1981.
Were Harry Harlow's experiments ethical?
Harlow's research has been heavily criticized by animal rights advocates for the severe psychological distress inflicted on the infant monkeys. Many of his isolation experiments led to profound and permanent emotional damage in the animals, sparking modern ethical debates.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
