Realistic Conflict theory

• what is RCT?

  prejudice is a result of conflict between groups, and arises due to competition.

  • Sherif states when 2 diff groups compete for same valued resource members become prejudiced
• Ember and Ember (1992)

  In tribal societies intergroup hostility increases when competition for natural resources increases (eg famine).

  • cross cultural evidence to support RCT!
• Aronson (1978)

  removal of competition in class toward superordinate goal reduces conflict.

  • jigsaw method, had to work together to ensure success of class project, which reduced comp (supports RCT, prac app!!)
• evidence?

  • credible due to evidence, Sherif shows how competition increased hostility and when working toward superordinate goal they seemed friendlier.
  • cross-cultural relevance using Ember and Ember.

  
  

  • Sherif said boys became hostile before competition was introduced, social identity may be better? also ignores individual differences
• methodology?

  • Robbers cave was field experiment, meaning high in ecological validity as going to a summer camp seems normal. high in mundane realism as tug of war and softball were good competitions to use.
• applications?

  suggests prejudice and hostility can reduce is working toward a superordinate goal.

  • Aronson!