'' Intergroup dynamics '' ( or intergroup relations ) refers to the behavioural and psychological relationship between two or more groups . This includes perceptions , attitudes , opinions , and behaviours towards one ’s own group , as well as those towards another group . In some cases , intergroup dynamics is prosocial , positive , and beneficial ( for example , when multiple research teams work together to accomplish a task or goal ) . In other cases , intergroup dynamics can create conflict . For example , Fischer & Ferlie found initially positive dynamics between a clinical institution and its external authorities dramatically changed to a ' hot ' and intractable conflict when authorities interfered with its embedded clinical model . Similarly , underlying the 1999 Columbine High School shooting in Littleton , Colorado , United States , intergroup dynamics played a significant role in Eric Harris ’ and Dylan Klebold ’s decision to kill a teacher and 14 students ( including themselves )
Columbine High School shooting
Columbine High School massacre
Group dynamics