Which strategy is designed to reduce international tensions through graduated and reciprocated initiatives?

The strategy designed to reduce international tensions through graduated and reciprocated initiatives is known as GRIT, which stands for Graduated and Reciprocated Initiatives in Tension-Reduction. This approach is significant in social psychology and international relations because it emphasizes taking small steps towards de-escalation and cooperation. By starting with minor, non-threatening actions that can be reciprocated, GRIT aims to foster an environment where both parties can gradually build trust and reduce the likelihood of conflict.

The foundation of GRIT lies in the idea that if one party takes a conciliatory approach, the other party is more likely to respond positively, thus creating a cycle of cooperation. This method contrasts sharply with more aggressive or unilateral approaches to conflict resolution, highlighting the importance of patience and reciprocity in diffusing tension on a larger scale.