robbers cave experiment (1954)

Question 1

what is realistic conflict theory

Answer 1

conflict between groups arises from competition over limited valuable resources

Question 2

aim

Answer 2

create conflict between groups and then employ interventions designed to reduce it

Question 3

method

Answer 3

1. group formation
   - boys were separated and didnt know one another
   - given activities to bond
   - created unique in group identities
   RATTLERS VS EAGLES
2. intergroup competition
   - groups were introduced and put into direct competition
   - in games there were prizes for only the winners
   - resulted in viscous rivalry (verbal: name calling and taunting) (physical: stealing prizes and fights)
3. intergroup co-operation
   - researchers arranges specific situations where the groups had to work together
   - CONTACT: watching movies and sharing meals
   - SUPERORDINATE GOALS: broken down food truck and water supply

Question 4

sample

Answer 4

22 american middle class 11-12 year old white protestant boys with similar backgrounds to prevent any pre prejudice

Question 5

key findings

Answer 5

• hostility arises between 2 groups when scarce resources
• triggers prejudice and discrimination
• contact alone is not enough to restore harmony but superordinate goals are
• stage 2: friends within groups
  stage 3: friends outside groups

Question 6

strengths / contributions

Answer 6

• generalisable results
• RCT is supported
  -reveals how conflict contributes to prejudice and stereotyping
• one way to reduce conflict is to make 2 outgroups work towards the same goal

Question 7

limitations

Answer 7

• ethical concerns: deceived, generating conflict caused physical and psychological harm

-results are hard to generalise cause of small sample size (male, american etc)

• artificially created situation
• robbers cave may only predict outcomes for teenage boys