Classic study in detail- Sherif (1954/62)

Question 1

Aims

Answer 1

To test if conflict between groups will cause prejudice.

To see if prejudice can be reduced.

Question 2

Procedure

Answer 2

Twenty boys stayed at a specially created summer camp (Robbers Cave), for three weeks. They were homogeneous (white, male, 12). They were randomly divided into two groups. For week one, they didn’t know of the other group, and created flags and painted shorts of their group name. They discovered each other and felt threatened. Conflict was introduced (they competed for points, that gained them prizes). This led to clear loyalty to their own group. There was name calling, and they even raided and burnt each others flags. Superordinate goals were introduced, which reduced prejudice.

Question 3

Results

Answer 3

Prejudice was present, and was clearly reduced.

Question 4

Conclusion

Answer 4

Prejudice was created, and reduced. However, as well as proving Realistic conflict theory, it proved Social identity theory, as prejudice occurred straight away.