Lectures 5 & 6: Conflict

Question 1

What is a conflict?

Answer 1

As expressed struggle between two interdependent parties over goals seen as incompatible or resources deemed insufficient or interference.

Question 2

What is a constant characteristic of interpersonal communication?

Answer 2

They invariably result in conflict at some point.

Question 3

What are the categories of conflicts?

Answer 3

• Substance/Intrinsic: Differences in perspectives or view of facts; results in choice conflict
• Values: Participants hold different values or ranking of values varies
• Process: Conflicts in how to pursue values or reach goals
• Misperception: Mistaken interpretation (missunderstanding)
• Relationship: Personality driven, involves ego, feelings, etc.

Question 4

Dangers of conflicts:

Answer 4

• Cohesion erosion
• Hurt or damaged feelings
• Damaged relationships
• Impedes task completion or quality
• Group dissolution
• Violence, aggression, revenge

Question 5

What are the 2 types of conflicts?

Answer 5

• Cancer: conflict is like a disease that infects and destroys the group/relationships. It may start small and spreads until the group is damaged and the group cannot reach its goal.
• Machine: It is like a machine because it reflects movement, “gears” turning and moving the group forward or in a new direction.

Question 6

Benefits of healthy conflicts:

Answer 6

• Implies a dynamic state
• Shows active participation
• Offers alternatives
• Builds group cohesion

Question 7

Destructive conflict:

Answer 7

• Focus gets jeopardized
• Feelings of rejection
• When conflicts get unaddressed, it spreads like an undiagnozed disease with potential catastrophic consequences

Question 8

Managing conflicts:

Answer 8

• Non-confrontational
• Controlling
• Cooperative

Question 9

Conflict at work:

Answer 9

• Avoidance: neutral player but the conflict is still there
• Defensive vs Supportive: Open collaboration with all parties; able to risk win or loss
• Face Saving vs Detracting: Involving people not issues/facts

Question 10

Behaviors:

Answer 10

• Integrating: high concern for self and others
• Obliging: low self/high other
• Dominating: high self/ low other
• Avoiding: low self/low other
• Compromising: middle self and other

Question 11

How to deal with the heat of a conflict:

Answer 11

-Avoid interrupting, apologize when needed, listen and manage your emotions.