Sherif et al (1954,1961)

AIMS

> To investigate intergroup relations over a period of time, when various experimentally induced situations were introduced.

> Interested in the formation of groups and the effect competition had, and the conditions under which conflict could be resolved.

PROCEDURE

3 Stages

> 1 > in-groups were created by introducing tasks that required in-group cooperation.

> 2 > The two groups would be brought together in situations where they would have to compete against each other for goals.

> 3 > Superordinate goals were introduced to encourage cooperation between the two groups in order to reduce hostility.

PARTICIPANTS

> 22 boys aged 11 years old, 1 was 12.

> They were felt to be 'normally adjusted' > middle class, Protestant families, from schools in Oklahoma City.

> Initial sample of 200 was selected using opportunity sampling from schools in Oklahoma, of whcih 22 were selected.

> The researchers made sure that the boys did not know eachother prior to the field study.

> Parents were given $25 as an incentive to avoid visitation to the summer camp through the 2 week stay. The boys were not introduced to eachother unlike the previous 2 experiments. They were divided into equally matched groups using information that was obtained from their parents and teachers > in regards to educational and athletic ability.

STAGE ONE

> the first 5-6 days > the two groups of boys were kept separate from eachother.Each group was involved in activities  that were designed to encourage in-group formation. Sociometric data was gathered on how the boys rated each other in terms of popularity, initiative etc.

STAGE TWO

> the next 4-6 days > the boys…