Realistic Conflict Theory

Explanations > Theories > Realistic Conflict Theory

Description | Research | Example | So What? | See also | References 

Description

When there is limited resources, then this leads to conflict, prejudice and discrimination between groups who seek that common resource. Once hostility has been aroused, it is very difficult to return to normal relations and an ongoing feud can arise.

Research

Muzafer Sherif divided a Boy Scout camp into two groups, the Eagles and the Rattlers. After helping the groups to each become cohesive, he introduced competitive games and other conflicts. Before long, a full-scale riot was in progress and the researchers had to work hard at mediation to defuse the situation.

Example

A common situation is where jobs are scarce and an established group blames immigrants for ‘taking the food out of our childrens’ mouths’.

So what?

Using it

Gain control over a resource required by many. Where you cannot, point to others who use the resource as causes of your own ills.

Defending

When resources are limited, pre-empt conflict by setting up joint councils, etc. to decide fairly on allocation.

See also

Scapegoat Theory

http://www.ppu.org.uk/learn/peaceed/pe_robbers_cave.html

References

Sherif (1966), Levine and Campbell (1972), Jackson (1993)

|awa|dp|