Realistic Conflict Theory Overview

Questions and Answers

Who proposed Realistic Conflict Theory (RCT)?

Sherif

What does RCT state about prejudice?

RCT states that when there is conflict between groups, there is prejudice.

What supporting evidence does RCT have?

This theory is supported by evidence from a famous study investigating group conflict: The Robbers Cave.

When does conflict occur according to Sherif?

Conflict occurs when two groups are in competition for limited resources. Signup and view all the answers

What application to real life does RCT have?

RCT can help reduce prejudice through cooperation on superordinate goals. Signup and view all the answers

What are the weaknesses of RCT as an explanation of prejudice?

RCT shows a link between competition and prejudice but offers no cause and effect explanation. Signup and view all the answers

What are the strengths of RCT as an explanation of prejudice?

Intergroup hostility increases under conditions of competition, such as during famines. Signup and view all the answers

How does the theory suggest to reduce prejudice?

By setting superordinate goals that require cooperation between competing groups. Signup and view all the answers

What does Duckitt argue about RCT?

Duckitt suggests that realistic conflict explains prejudice that arises through competition over scarce resources. Signup and view all the answers

What increases the likelihood of prejudice?

Prejudice is more likely if the resources are finite. Signup and view all the answers

Give examples of scarce resources.

Water, food, jobs, territory, financial resources. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Realistic Conflict Theory (RCT) Overview

RCT was proposed by Sherif, focusing on the dynamics between competing groups.
Suggests that conflict leads to prejudice, particularly when groups compete for limited resources.

Conflict and Prejudice

Conflict arises among groups competing for the same resources, resulting in negative stereotyping and discrimination.
In-group (the group one belongs to) versus out-group (the competing group) dynamics intensify prejudice and hostility.

Supporting Evidence

Evidence supporting RCT comes from Sherif's Robbers Cave study, which highlighted group conflict in a controlled setting.

Intergroup Conflict

Sherif argued that intergroup conflict occurs whenever there is competition for limited resources, leading to increased hostility between groups.

Real-Life Applications

Aronson et al. (1978) applied RCT principles in classrooms, demonstrating that using the jigsaw technique reduced competition and associated conflict.
Sherif's findings also indicated that reduced competition resulted in lower intergroup conflict.
RCT provides insight into severe real-life conflicts, such as the Rwandan genocide, stemming from political rivalry and competition between the Hutu and Tutsi tribes.

Weaknesses of RCT

Correlative evidence does not establish a cause-and-effect relationship; other factors may contribute to prejudice.
Observations from Sherif's experiments showed hostility developed before competitive events, suggesting that mere group presence may trigger prejudice, a concept supported by Social Identity Theory.

Strengths of RCT

Ember and Ember (1992) noted that hostility in tribal societies escalates during competition for scarce resources, especially in times of crisis.
Studies indicate that population expansion and resource scarcity correlate with increased conflict and violence.
Sherif's Robbers Cave experiment showcased increased hostility due to competition, lending ecological validity to the findings as they reflect real-life summer camp scenarios.

Reducing Prejudice

RCT suggests that uniting competing groups toward a common goal can minimize prejudice and conflict.
Establishing superordinate goals, which require cooperation, fosters collaboration among groups to achieve desired outcomes.

Duckitt's Argument

Duckitt posits that realistic conflict serves as an explanation for prejudice emerging from competition over limited resources, particularly when groups have equal status.

Likelihood of Prejudice

The likelihood of prejudice escalates in scenarios where resources are finite, termed 'zero-sum' situations, where one group wins at the expense of another.

Examples of Scarce Resources

Common examples of scarce resources include water, food, jobs, territory, and financial resources.

Description

Explore the key concepts of Realistic Conflict Theory (RCT) proposed by Sherif, which examines how competition between groups leads to conflict and prejudice. This quiz delves into the dynamics of in-group and out-group behaviors, as well as real-world applications like the jigsaw technique in educational settings.