In a study called the ‘Robbers’ Cave’ experiment, researchers Sherif et al. (1961) developed a theory to explain negative prejudices, stereotypes, and conflicts between groups who compete for the same things. They conducted the experiment with two groups of teenage boys who competed against each other in different sports activities. The groups quickly formed a strong bond within their own group (called ingroup), but they became hostile towards each other because of the competition and situations where one group benefited while the other group suffered (called friction phase). For example, one group arrived late to a picnic while the other group had already finished eating all of the food.
The conflict escalated from teasing each other with words to threatening physical actions. After some time, the boys started speaking positively about their own group members and saying negative things about the other group. The final stage of the experiment was the ‘integration stage,’ where the tension between the groups was reduced through tasks that required them to work together as a team.
The study showed how conflicts between groups can lead to prejudice and discriminatory behavior. This theory can also help us understand different aspects of sports psychology, such as building a team, dealing with conflicts between teammates, the effect of coaching behavior, and the impact of competition.
Sherif, M., Harvey, O. J., White, B. J., Hood, W. R., & Sherif, C. W. (1961). Intergroup conflict and cooperation: The rob- bers cave experiment (Vol. 10). Norman, OK: University Book Exchange.