A Resource Dependence Perspective on Intergroup Conflict: The Synthesis of Two Theories

Conflict has been a fundamental part of human interaction since the beginning of history. It can be as benign as a sibling rivalry or as malignant as a world war. It may involve two people or two billion people and its duration is equally unfixed. Although the manifestations of conflict vary across time and space, it remains an ever-present facet of our lives. In the fiercely competitive organizational landscape of the 21st century, where economic winners and losers are commensurately rewarded or punished in an increasingly short time span, conflict among companies, departments, teams, and individuals is ubiquitous and intense. However, in order for businesses to function and turn a profit in today’s global economy, both inter-group and inter-organizational cooperation and collaboration are increasingly necessary. Therefore, from an organizational behavioral perspective, understanding the origins of conflict, and how it transpires within and between organizations, is crucial. "This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: [Kimberly McCarthy and Eric Rhodes (2018). "A Resource Dependence Perspective on Intergroup Conflict: The Synthesis of Two Theories". Journal of Theoretical Social Psychology. 2(3).] which has been published in final form at [ https://doi.org/10.1002/jts5.22]. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions."