Sherif's study of conflict in a Boy Scout camp indicated that conflict between two groups of boys could be reduced most effectively by
A) bringing the members of both groups into close contact.
B) having one group make conciliatory gestures to the other group.
C) allowing leaders of the two groups to communicate.
D) exposing the groups to tasks that required their joint cooperation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sherif's study found that introducing superordinate goals, such as tasks that require the cooperation of both groups, can reduce conflict and increase cooperation between them. This is because the groups are forced to see each other as working towards a common goal, rather than as opposing groups. Bringing the groups into close contact or allowing communication between leaders may not necessarily address the underlying issues causing the conflict, and making conciliatory gestures may not be effective if the other group does not reciprocate.

Sherif's Study of Conflict in a Boy Scout Camp Indicated