Plz replay to this DB post include biblical reference in the replay post
What is the current state of the research on this topic based on the articles you read (please be mindful to include a discussion of the articles you have read)?
A major theme addressed in these articles is that there is no linear path to understanding the dynamics of group conflict. Individual motives, group motives, power dynamics, history, and reasons for intervention all contribute to the group interplay and ultimately determine the impact of the interaction. Intergroup helping is divided into three categories: Intergroup Helping as Subtle Discrimination, Strategic Motives for Intergroup Helping, and Intergroup Helping in the Field. Many previous books and studies have had a 4:1 ratio of negative to positive articles, driving this chapter’s quest to search for positive interactions and motives (Kogut & Ritov, 2017).
Some interventions cited as changing attitudes in inner group conflict are providing contradictory information, paradoxical thinking, enlightening individual shortcomings, teaching skills, and information processing model (Bar-Tal & Hameiri, 2020). Each of these models are potentially efficacious, but their overall effect is contingent upon the complexities of the real world and the motives attached to the beliefs of those in the group. Hunter et al. (2019) found that perceived control has a direct relationship to outcomes and discrimination. When assessing interventions. inner group conflict must be carefully assessed to match the appropriate intervention to the group narrative at hand (Bar-Tal & Hameiri, 2020).
Simon (2019) brings about a new perspective in which the group members’ concerns for respect and recognition are better classified as different equals. Different equals are defined as one’s ability to retain their personal perspectives while also recognizing their value as an equal. This means that we accommodate where possible and where it is not possible, we honor their differences. Perhaps this acceptance of an individual difference is the catalyst for change that brings the individual from the fight for recognition into the group battle to win the over-arching collective goal. This dynamic shift in perception seeks to remove the spotlight from individual differences to group unity (Simon, 2019).
When evaluating articles, it is important to outline parameters that answer questions about the treatments that are not effective, assess the benefits and risks of treatment, spot gaps in knowledge, and filter the quality of randomized controlled trials. Whether conducting a meta-analysis or systematic review, it is imperative that you select a review question, determine eligibility criteria, use multiple reviewers, select quality studies, ensure they meet the standards for the study, synthesize the data, analyze and present the results. Each step in this process is critical to ensure that the data generated meets the criteria for clinically relevant conclusions that can be applied to the target population (Impellizzeri & Bizzini, 2012).
What limitations or gaps in the research exist that should be addressed/studied?
A gap in research is that the interventions reviewed are subject to the particular group interaction and the groups perceived control (Bar-Tal & Hammeiri, 2020; Hunter et al., 2019). High and low levels of perceived control indicate an increases in discrimination (Hunter et al., 2020). Social psychology suggests that the field could use more studies that focus on positive motives and interactions (Kogut & Ritov, 2017).
What biblical truths could be applied to this area to enhance our knowledge or research direction?
Romans 12:3-8 implores us to think of ourselves humbly, have sound judgement, live in the purpose for which we are called, respect each member of the body, and to do so with generosity. Many conflicts arise from our desire to be important, are rooted in self-righteousness, driven by personal power, and promote the individual. When we operate in humility, think about the collective whole. walk in our specific gifting, consider the interest of others, and facilitate group cohesion, we can accomplish the task at hand (Amplified Bible, 2015).
