Realistic Conflict Theory

Question 1

Realistic Conflict Theory

A01-Intergroup Competition

Answer 1

Intergroup Competition-
COMPETITION (In any form) can lead to PREJUDICE
When 2 groups strive for the SAME GOAL- INTENSIFIES feelings of HOSTILITY and PREJUDICE

Eg In competitive sports- 2 teams play against each other for a place in the finals= ANIMOSITY between opposing player/fans INCREASE

Question 2

Realistic Conflict Theory

A01- Negative interdependence

Answer 2

Negative interdependence-

• Occurs in situations where 2 groups of people seek to ACHIEVE a GOAL important for both of them. Only 1 GROUP can achieve it= COMPETITION
• Each groups will OBSTRUCT the others ACHIEVEMENT= conflict of INTEREST,each want other to lose
• One groups win is CONTINGENT upon the other groups LOSS
• Interactions with members of the opposing group= ANTAGONISTIC + HOSTILE
• But with members of their own group= COOPERATIVE, INCREASED SOLIDARITY
• Whether they’re perceived as a COMPETITOR/COLLABORATOR vital to determining if they’re treating HOSTILELY to FAVOURABLY

Question 3

Realistic Conflict Theory

A01- Limited Resources

Answer 3

Limited Resources-
Competition between groups can occur because of a LACK OF RESOURCES meaning only one group can obtain them. Eg - Scare material, - physical resources -Symbolic resources
Highest level of discrimination happens when competition is for PHYSICAL and FINITE resources
But if COMPROMISE is possible, the levels of DISCRIMINATION are much LOWER

Question 4

Realistic Conflict Theory

A01-Positive interdependence and superordinate goals

Answer 4

Positive interdependence and superordinate goals-
-Prejudice that arises through INTERGROUP CONFLICT can be REDUCED, by groups working COOPERATIVELY to accomplish a COMMON GOAL
-One groups WIN is CONTINGENT upon the others WIN
Each group FACILITATES the others ACHIEVEMENT
-The 2 groups are INTERDEPENDENT(positive)- means neither group reaches it’s GOAL until the other group reaches THEIRS
-SUPERORDINATE GOALS are goals only achieved through INTERGROUP COOPERATION. They’re INSTRUMENTAL to reducing PREJUDICE as it increases FAVOURABLE PERCEPTIONS of opposing group and HARMONIOUS intergroup interactions