Realistic Conflict Theory

Question 1

What is prejudice?

Answer 1

A preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.

Or to give rise to prejudice in (someone); make biased.

Question 2

What is the Realistic Conflict Theory?

Answer 2

The theory suggests that when there is conflict between groups, there is prejudice. Whenever two or more groups are in competition for the same resources, conflict will occur and prejudice follow.

Question 3

Intergroup competition

Answer 3

Whenever two or more groups are in competition for the same resources, conflict will occur and prejudice follow.

Question 4

Negative Interdependence

Answer 4

RCT explains there will be negative stereotyping against the ‘other group’ and discrimination can occur too, e.g. shouting verbal insults. Any groups competing for the same resources tend to be in-group and out-group (with the out-group threatening the in-group for resources) – for example immigrants (out-group) threatening local citizens (in-group) for jobs/housing.

Question 5

Limited Resources

Answer 5

RCT states that conflict is worse when the resources are finite, “zero-sum game”. One group must lose in order for the other group to win, creating a negative interdependence situation, e.g. playing chess.

Question 6

Superordinate Goals

Answer 6

RCT states that the introduction of superordinate goals reduces prejudice and intergroup conflict. This will create a positive interdependence situation, where it is only possible to achieve the goal by the groups working together.

Question 7

Strength of RCT

Answer 7

Sherif’s Robbers cave study supports the RCT idea that competition leads to prejudice. In Sherif’s study when the boys were competing over a prize, their prejudiced behaviour increased. However, after when they had to cooperate to reach shared goals such as fixing a water tank, they considered each other friends, showing a reduction in prejudice. The change in the boy’s behaviour in this study demonstrate that competition leads to prejudice.

Question 8

Weakness of RCT

Answer 8

However, there is research that suggests that competition is not necessary for prejudice to occur. Tajfel (1970) tested the behaviours of two groups of boys who were put into two groups randomly. He found that even though there isn’t competition between the groups, the presence of another group was enough to cause prejudiced point giving behaviour in the boys. Suggesting that simple group identity is enough to lead to prejudiced behaviour against another group, and favourable behaviours within a group.