Question

analyze and relate the types of conflict management concepts.

the question is in relation to the textbook (interpersonal conflict)

Answer 1

Conflict is a unique and unavoidable factor when it comes to communication. This is especially true with company communication between subordinates, peers, and superiors. Conflict can be defined as “a circumstance in which one party negatively affects or seeks to negatively affect another party in both observable and perceived ways” (Baack, 2012). One of the biggest problems with conflict is that it is allowed to get so out of control that productivity is affected. “While some conflict may serve the purpose of crafting a more refined product, significant or unresolved conflict can effectively serve to delay or scuttle even the most well-planned or well-designed project” (Hignite, Margavio, & Chin, 2002). Some of the techniques that can be used to facilitate conflict resolution are confrontation, conversation, compromise, illness, and death. These are just a few of the best case and worst case scenario techniques. There are more that can be used for effective conflict resolution. The best possible way to resolve conflict, from the list of techniques provided here, is compromise. Compromise involves coming to a common ground about the conflict, and trying to resolve the conflict on terms that both parties can enjoy and be satisfied with. This is the best technique because it involves both parties walking away from the conflict in a positive and productive way. Organizational hierarchy assists in conflict resolution as sometimes it takes a larger, wiser, and calmer head to settle certain conflict and disputes. A hierarchy in which there are multiple supervisors and managers allows for this to be possible. An employee may have a conflict with a section supervisor that can not be resolved, and needs to be taken to the department manager for further resolution. As well, a hierarchy helps put managers in charge who can teach conflict resolution to their employees. “Equally important as educating students on the concepts of conflict resolution modes for classroom purposes, is the fact that students as emerging professionals, will likely have the future opportunity to bring such knowledge to bear in a wide variety of employment situations. Just as important as providing students with relevant technical skills or knowledge, we believe, is the task of educating students regarding the most effective organizational or group processes to be used as either participants or managers of the application development effort” (Hignite, Margavio, & Chin, 2002). Even in an educational setting, the implementation of a good organizational hierarchy can assist with the education of proper conflict resolution. This education leads to a much more effective organization.