Realistic conflict theory

Question 1

what is RCT a model of?

Answer 1

model of intergroup conflict which suggests that two groups are prejudiced towards one another when there is a goal insight or when there is a possibility of material gain.

Question 2

describe realistic conflict theory

Answer 2

• conflict arises as a result of conflict of interest
• when two groups want to achieve the same goal but both can’t have it, so hostility increases
• sherif claims competition is a needed condition for conflict
• other groups (e.g. immigrants) can be prejudiced because they are viewed as stealing jobs, housing, and schooling (out-group)
• but when groups need to work together for a common aim, there is a reduction in hostility and more harmony (superordinate goals)

Question 3

what is the acronym for remembering RCT?

Answer 3

Girls make cakes look really special

Question 4

state all the factors of RCT

Answer 4

G - goals insight
M - material gain
C - competition is sufficient
R - real or perceived scarcity of resources
L - length and severity of conflict
S - superordinate goals

Question 5

strengths of RCT

Answer 5

• supported by robbers cave experiment e.g. when boys competing in camp games for valued prizes hostility increased
• application: help stop discrimination against prejudiced groups

Question 6

weaknesses of RCT

Answer 6

• boys were becoming hostile much before competition was even introduced = SIT Tajfel
  -Tyerman and Spencer man english boy scouts who knew eachother previously. Results showed even when competition introduced there was no hostility and groups mixed well, suggests competition is not vital factor for conflict but other factors such as context or situation