ABSTRACT
This chapter describes what relevant social psychological theories for intergroup relations (would) conclude with respect to cooperation. It discusses research on cooperation in the classroom and some methods of cooperative learning, since it is in schools that most studies on cooperation have been done. The chapter deals with some questions that deserve further research. Of all theories of intergroup relations the contact hypothesis is most directed toward prejudice reduction. It is a theory of change whereas most other theories primarily try to explain the origin of prejudice and related phenomena. According to the belief congruence theory, similarity between individuals’ belief systems is an important determinant of their attitudes towards each other. Social psychologists have greatly influenced the policy of school desegregation. Their research evidence was used by the Supreme Court of the United States to decide in favor of desegregation in 1954.
