Realistic conflict theory

• Intergroup competition

  Sherif suggested that the key to prejudice is competition in any form

  When 2 groups are striving for the same goal then prejudice and hostility will intensify
• Negative interdependence 


  in situations when 2 groups are striving for same goal than only one can reach - conflict of interest. ‘Negative’ aspect relates to the fact that each group will act as obstruction to other. Inter group relations will deteriorate and ingroup relations will strengthen
• Limited resources

  struggle may be for a scarce material or physical recourse such as food or territory. Or for symbolic like political power Usually leads to fiercest of conflicts unless a compromise is possible (discrimination would then be lower)
• Positive interdependence 


  Occurs when neither group can reach their goals unless other group also reaches theirs - reduces prejudice
• superordinate goals


  Only be reached through inter group cooperation. Leads to favourable perceptions of outgroups
• Strength


  Supported by Robbers Cave experiment 1961. (See other deck)
• CA to cave

  Although field experiment w naturalistic setting, original paper tells how boys needed provocation to show to trigger displays of prejudice. Experimenters had to secretly raid one cabin to make it seem like other group. SO intergroup comp doesn’t lead to hostility
• Weakness

  Competition not needed for prejudice. Tajfels 1970 minimal group exp showed discrimination can arise from the act of percieving someone ‘not like me’. Suggests more to do w info and knowledge of group instead
• Strength 2

  successfully applied to reduce prejudice in society. RCT proposes that inter group relations can be enhanced through superordinate goals. Major strength as future of planet hinges on diverse groups working together for greater goals like in Paris Agreement on climate change