Embedded inter group theory

            The Social structure relationships between different entities and constant patterns of relationship stress the suggestion that society is grouped into structurally different functions with related groups of roles, purposes or meanings.  Social structure is sometimes divided into macrostructure and microstructure. The idea of social structure can mask systematic biases, as it engages many identifiable sub variables, for example, gender. Its argued that men and women who have same qualifications receive different treatment in the workplace because of their gender (Smidts 94).

Social Identity Theory

Social Identity Theory states that group membership creates self-categorization and development in ways that support the in-group at the expense of the out-group. The act of persons categorizing themselves as group members was sufficient to lead them to display in-group favoritism. After being categorized of a group membership, persons seek to attain positive self-esteem by positively differentiating their group from a contrast out group on some valued aspect. This quest for positive distinctiveness can show that people’s sense of who they are is defined in terms of ‘we’ rather than ‘I’ (Burns, 68).

Realistic group theory

          The realistic conflict theory ties into bias and stereotypes. It puts forth the idea that limited resources will lead to conflict between groups and this is a direct reason why unfairness and stereotypes can develop within a society.  Muzafer Sherif and Carolyn Sherif  introduced tasks that required collaboration between the two groups to lessen friction and promote unity (Muzafer, 72) The Challenges they set up included finding a movie to show and a water shortage problem. These and other important co-operations caused hostile behavior to fall down. The groups connected to the point that, by the end of the experiment and the boys collectively maintained they all travel back home on the same bus (Haslam, 56).

References:

Muzafer Sherif, O. J. Harvey,   "Intergroup Conflict and Cooperation: The Robbers Cave Experiment",1961

Haslam, Alexander S., “Psychology in Organizations - The Social Identitty Approach,” Sage Publications Ltd, London. 2001

 Burns, T. R. and H. Flam, “The Shaping of Social Organization: Social Rule System Theory with Applications”, London: Sage.1987

Smidts, A., A.T.H. Pruyn, and C.B.M.v. Riel, “The impact of employee communication and perceived external prestige on organizational identification”, The Academy of Management Journal, 2001.