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The Nature of Conflict Conflict resolution or conflict management? At a training session, a nationally known consultant from a mediation firm in Boulder, Colorado was asked what the difference was between conflict resolution and conflict management. The trainer replied that the distinction was one that only an academician could love. The distinction, however, is important both intellectually and psychologically, as the terms evoke different conceptions of the nature of conflict. As conflict scholar (1994) states, 'the way we think about conflict has important implications for the way we act in situations where conflict exists' (p. Conflict resolution implies that conflicts can be resolved--finished, completed, overcome, or permanently settled.
Singer suggests that conflicts may be resolved by (1) integration and constructive action, (2) by sublimation and withdrawal, (3) by resolute contention and fighting, and (4) by regression and yielding (“The Resolution of Conflict”: 230ff).
The label conflict management was intentionally chosen by communication scholars because the term evokes a process view of the choices and behaviors that come into play during conflicts. Communication during conflict requires both choice and action--actions that may or may not solve the conflict permanently. The term conflict management implies that conflict is not an 'on' or 'off' phenomenon. Some conflicts are enduring and the best we can hope for is to manage the level and manifestation of conflict--to sustain a good working relationship free from negative behaviors or violence. Communication scholars generally agree that conflict: • is a process • is inevitable• is a normal part of life Continue through the rest of this section to read more about the nature of conflict.
Conflict is a disagreement between two or more parties. Although the dictionary may assert that the word 'conflict' is synonymous with the word 'fight,' practical usage suggests that there is a difference. 'Fight' suggests a combat - perhaps a conflict that degenerates into two people punching each other. 'Conflict' - in a business setting - suggests less physical activity. Both can be harmful, however, to the people engaged.
Conflict can arise over the slightest thing in a business setting, and can escalate into a major confrontation between several factions. Although nations, businesses, churches and families all participate (and succumb) to conflict, we will primarily focus on the conflict that can occur between parties in a business setting: Specifically, we will be looking at conflict that happens within a company.
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You may be involved in a conflict in your family or church - two common places where conflict can also occur - and you will get something out of this material. However, please be aware that it is primarily designed for business conflict situations. If you are experiencing conflict between your business and a vendor, or your business and a client, you will also find this content useful, but it may not all apply.