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Professional Communications

Temperament, Conflict Resolution,

& Problem Solving

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Personality The combination of characteristics or

qualities that form an individual's distinctive character

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Character The aggregate features and traits that form the individual nature of a person.

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Temperament The combination of observable

and typical personality traits of an individual, including: Communication style Behavior Attitudes Values Talents

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The Four Temperaments

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Each temperament has unique qualities, strengths, and weaknesses. Many systems attempt to categorize humans based on their temperaments. Dr. David Keirsey presents a useful system in Please Understand Me II (1998).

The GuardianSecurity-seeking• Supervisors• Inspectors• Providers• Protectors

The Artisan Sensation-seeking• Promoters• Crafters• Performers• Composers

The IdealistIdentity-seeking

• Teachers• Counselors • Champions• Healers

The Rationalist Knowledge-seeking• Masterminds• Inventors• Architects• Field Marshals

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Conflict An incompatibility between two or

more opinions, principles, or interests.

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Resolution The action of solving a

problem, dispute, or contentious matter.

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Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Conflict Resolution is also called ADR, which stands for Alternative Dispute Resolution. The terms mean the same thing and are used interchangeably when referring to formal methods of resolving a dispute.

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Common Types of Conflict Resolution Negotiation: discussion aimed at

reaching an agreement. Mediation: the mediator’s goal is to

bring the two parties to an agreement that satisfies each of them. The mediator is a sort of referee and can’t make any actual decisions

Arbitration: a neutral third party has the power to make a decision after hearing all of the facts

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Problem A matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful that needs to be dealt with and overcome

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Problem Solving Techniques:

Problem identification: What is my concern? Goal definition: What do I want to achieve or

change? Brainstorming: What can I do? Consequences: What might happen? Decision: How should I do it? Implementation: Do it! Evaluation: Did it work?

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