Social Identity Theory and Sherif's Robbers Cave Experiment

Social Identity Theory (SIT)

A theory proposed by Tajfel & Turner (1979) suggesting people derive part of their identity from the social groups they belong to. It explains intergroup behavior through in-group favoritism and out-group discrimination.

Social Categorization

Placing people (including ourselves) into groups.

Social Identification

Adopting the identity and behaviors of the group.

Social Comparison

Comparing in-group to out-groups to boost self-esteem.

In-group

A group one identifies with and feels loyalty toward; viewed positively.

Out-group

A group one doesn't identify with; often viewed with suspicion or hostility.

Social Identity

A person's sense of who they are based on group membership(s).

Intergroup Conflict

Tension or hostility between groups, often driven by competition or perceived differences.

Realistic Conflict Theory

A theory by Sherif suggesting that intergroup conflict arises from competition over limited resources.

Aim of Sherif et al. (1954) - Robbers Cave Experiment

To investigate whether intergroup conflict arises when groups are in competition for limited resources.

Method of Sherif et al. (1954)

Field experiment with 22 white, middle-class boys at summer camp. Divided into two groups, the Eagles and the Rattlers, with stages: bonding, competition, and cooperation.

Results of Sherif et al. (1954)

Competition led to verbal abuse, physical aggression, and strong in-group favoritism. Superordinate goals (shared tasks) reduced hostility and encouraged cooperation.

Conclusion from Sherif et al. (1954)

Intergroup conflict can be triggered by competition over resources (supports Realistic Conflict Theory), but shared goals can reduce tension (supports aspects of SIT).

Support of Social Identity Theory by Sherif et al. (1954)

Demonstrates how categorizing into groups (Rattlers vs. Eagles) and competition can lead to strong in-group identification and out-group prejudice.

Strength of Sherif's study

High ecological validity - realistic setting (summer camp); controlled field experiment.

Limitation of Sherif's study

Low generalizability - all participants were 12-year-old white boys from similar backgrounds.

Relevance of SIT to understanding group dynamics

Explains prejudice, discrimination, and group bias even without direct conflict — just being in different groups can be enough.