How did the prisoners react during the study, according to the findings?

The choice that identified mental distress as a reaction among the prisoners aligns with the findings of the study, which explored the psychological effects of imprisonment and the dynamics between guards and inmates. The research revealed that many prisoners experienced severe emotional and psychological challenges, such as anxiety and depression, due to the authoritarian environment and the perceived loss of control.

This distress was exacerbated by the harsh treatment and dehumanizing conditions they faced, which contributed to feelings of hopelessness and despair. The intensity of the experience was such that some participants had to be released early due to the psychological toll. This outcome underscores the impact of situational factors on mental health, illustrating how power dynamics can severely affect individuals' well-being in confined spaces.

The other options do not accurately reflect the outcomes of the study. For instance, while there might have been moments of compliance or attempts to bond, these were overshadowed by the overwhelming instances of distress. Strong bonds with guards were not a prominent finding; rather, any camaraderie would have been complex and often negative. The notion of prisoners taking control of the situation contradicts the established findings regarding their powerlessness in the context of the study's environment.