Realistic conflict theory

Question 1

Define ‘inter-group conflict’.

Answer 1

Prejudice and discrimination between groups due to competition for limited resources

Question 2

Define ‘superordinate goals’.

Answer 2

Goals that require cooperation of two groups to achieve, usually resulting in rewards for both the groups

Question 3

Describe Sherif’s Realistic Conflict Theory. (4 points)

Answer 3

Intergroup conflict occurs when two groups are in competition for limited resources

Interpersonal competition leads to hostility and negative attitudes that can result in prejudice and discrimination towards the out-group

In-group solidarity is increased between members of the same team

To reduce prejudice, superordinate goals can be established, where resources can only be won if cooperation occurs

Question 4

What are the strengths of the Realistic Conflict Theory? (3 points)

Answer 4

The concept of superordinate goals has been observed with real-life participants in studies like Sherif’s classic study

Competition between the in and out groups, the Rattlers and the Eagles, was overcome by cooperating to fix the broken down bus and water supply

Sheriff concluded that contact alone is not sufficient for groups to reduce out-group hostility - the two groups must actively engage in a mutually beneficial goal

Question 5

How credible is the Realistic Conflict Theory? (4 points)

Answer 5

The concept of in-group and whole-group solidarity is credible

Sherrif’s Robber’s Cave Study observed the boys for 12 hours a day using tools like:
+ Sociometric tests of friendship patterns
+ Tape recordings
+ Analysis of language/ behaviour during competitive tournaments

Percentage of Rattlers with friends in out-group:
During Stage 2: 6.4%
After Stage 3: 36.4%

The impact of superordinate goals on friendship patterns can be objectively measured using quantitative data that is falsifiable

Question 6

Are there explanations for prejudice other than the Realistic Conflict Theory? (3 points)

Answer 6

Other theories claim the mere existence of in-groups and out-groups without direct competition results in prejudice

Tajfel & Turner’s Social Identity Theory suggests there is a 3 stage process: Social Categorisation, Social Identification and Social Comparison

Jane Elliot (1968) divided a class into groups based on eye colour (blue and brown) - caused students to go from being ‘marvelous and cooperative’ to ‘vicious, nasty, discriminating third graders.’

Question 7

Is there room for debate on the Realistic Conflict Theory? (3 points)

Answer 7

Could be seen as reductionist - fails to consider other reasons for prejudicial behaviours

E.g. aggression due to genetics:
Chester et al (2013) - found the presence of the low-functioning MAOA-L warrior gene led to higher levels of aggression

RCT is not a full explanation of all prejudicial behaviours and remains incomplete

Question 8

How does the MAO-A warrior gene support the Realistic Conflict Theory being reductionist? (3 points)

Answer 8

MAO-A warrior genes code for a protein that normally functions to break down excess neurotransmitters like dopamine

A mutation in the gene causes the enzyme to malfunction, causing excess neurotransmitters to remain in the synaptic cleft

This leads to continual synaptic neurotransmission, manifesting as aggressive human behaviour

Question 9

Is the Realistic Conflict Theory applicable to real life? (4 points)

Answer 9

RCT has strong application in trying to prevent organised crime

E.g. football hooliganism
Supporters of opposing teams behave in a hostile and aggressive manner towards each other because they are in direct competition for a trophy or prize

Anti-social behaviour at football games could be reduced with superordinate goals like everyone working for charity - establishes a sense of whole group solidarity

This tells us that direct application of RCT to real life can used for the benefit of society