Is Peace Possible?: Attitude and Behavior Change in a Simulated International Conflict

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated the efficacy of Multiple Identification Theory (MIT) in fostering cooperative attitudes and behaviors among participants in simulated international conflicts. However, these studies did not employ control groups and their evidence of in vivo behavioral change was self-reported. Questions also persist in the literature regarding the effectiveness of games at educating students in international relations. The present investigation attempts to improve upon previous MIT research and resolve these questions. Participants either played an MIT game twice (full simulation treatment) or watched a documentary and played the game once (partial simulation treatment). Their attitudes and behaviors towards conflict were measured before, during and after the experimental sessions. Statistical tests showed that the attitudes and behaviors of full treatment participants became significantly more cooperative than those of partial treatment participants. The implications of this research for international relations practice, theory, and education are discussed.