Realistic Conflict Theory

• What Sherif suggest?


  Prejudice can be heightened if competition is involved - when multiple groups have the same goal
• Example of Intergroup Competition?


  Two football teams competing for a spot in the Regional Final, the fans and players will be more hostile to their Outgroup members
• What is Negative Interdependence?


  When two groups are striving for a goal, but only one of them can achieve it
• What will happen if there's Negative Interdependence?


  Increase in Hostility to opposing groups, Increase in solidarity in Ingroups
• What can lead to the highest levels of Prejudice?

  Limited resources - if two countries are wanting a piece of land, the prejudice may escalate to a war
• How can Prejudice be reduced?

  Through Positive Interdependence - sharing a common goal
• Example of a Subordinate Goal?


  If two groups at school fall out, they may be tasked to decorate the common room. This goal can be completed if both groups aren't interdependent, meaning the groups will have to fundraise and cooperate to complete the task