1. Conflict within Systems

Expressed Struggle

Incompatible Goals

Scarce Rewards

2. Conflict within Small Groups

Group Homogeneity & Conformity

Group Orientation & Constructive

Conflict

Communication

Scarce Resources

Diverse Backgrounds

Orientations to

Task Accomplishment

Substance

Basic Elements of

Constructive Conflict

Mutual Interpersonal

Concern

Interdependence

Equifinality

Resolution

Collaboration

Negotiation

Accommodation

Compromise

Competition

Avoidance

Styles

Problem Solver

Integratorfocused on Us

Looking for Consensus

"Win/Win" Solutions

Participation of all members

Resolutions Combine or Most Perspectives

Forges resolution of opposing views

Provides important benefits to each side

Follows Impasse; Non-resolvable disagreement

Sometimes involves formal bargaining

Not binding arbitration

Impartial mediator helps process

Mutual concessions for Satisfactory Resolution

Friendly Helper

Suppressor of self for harmony

One-Sided concession; giving In

"Lose/Win"

Use for non-significant, superficial conflicts

Results may be positive or negative

Positive if constructive compromise

Negative if coalition building; trading Issues

Conciliator; Negotiator

Split the difference; give up half

"Lose/Lose"

Use for small issues; save time & energy

Members must be willing to concede

Destructive if compromise forced

May reduce later cooperation & agreement

Tough Battler

Power OrientationWe/They

"Win/Lose"

Self Interest rather than mutual

interest

ConstructiveLimited to Issues

DestructivePersonal Attacks

Need Mutual Respect and Trust

Impersonal Complier

AvoidWithdraw

"Lose/Win"

Constructive: lack of Information, Expertise

Destructive: if Habitual; or Represents Unexpressed

Dissatisfaction

Styles of Conflict Management

Small Group and Team Communication, 2nd edition, Harris & Sherblom, Copyright Allyn & Bacon 2002

Competition Collaboration (Consensus) Negotiation Compromise Avoidance Accommodation

A

S

S

E

R

T

I

V

E

N

E

S

S

C O O P E R A T I V E N E S S

Address issues, not personalities.

Constructive Make Commitment to Positive Relationships

State Positions Directly and Honestly Listen Attentively to diverse opinions

Accept responsibility for thoughts & feelings

Insist on objective standards for solutions

Understand

Persons &

Perspectives

Use supportive, Not defensive, communication

Look for agreement under

disagreement

Focus on issues, Not positions

Generate alternatives before final resolution

Types of Power

Expert Power

Interpersonal Linkage Power

Reward and Punishment Power

Positional (Legitimate) Power

Referent Power

Charismatic (or Personal) Power

Avoidance Power

Power In Context

Group