- theory within social psychology that
ties into discrimination and stereotypes.
The theory puts forth the concept that limited
resources will lead to conflict between groups
and this is a direct reason why discrimination
and stereotypes can develop within a society.
It was originally investigated by Muzafer Sherif.
- He conducted his research in a 200 acres (0.8 km2)
summer camp which was completely surrounded by
Robbers Cave State Park in Oklahoma.
- The experiment was broken into three phases.
1. In-group formation, as described above.
2. A Friction Phase, which included first contact
between groups, sports competitions, etc.
3. An Integration Phase (reducing friction).
- None of the boys were previously acquainted before the experiment,
but hostility between the groups was observed within days of first contact
. Phase Two activities proceeded as planned, but soon proved overly
successful. Hostility between the groups escalated to the point where t
he study team concluded the friction-producing activities could not
continue safely. Phase Two was terminated and Phase Three commenced.
- To lessen friction and promote unity between the Rattlers and Eagles,
Sherif devised and introduced tasks that required cooperation between
the two groups. These tasks are referred to in the study as superordinate
goals. A superordinate goal is a desire, challenge, predicament or peril
that both parties in a conflict need to get resolved, and that neither party
can resolve alone. Challenges set up by the Sherifs included a water
shortage problem, a "broken down" camp truck that needed enough
"man" power to be pulled back to camp, and finding a movie to show.
These and other necessary collaborations caused hostile behavior to
subside. The groups bonded to the point that, by the end of the
experiment, the boys unanimously insisted they all ride back
home on the same bus.
- groups should have the most negative attitudes
towards their rivals, and these should be strongest
when resources are scarce and groups must compete for them