Running head: RESOLVING CONFLICT
Resolving Conflict
Benjamin Cox
University of Phoenix
Resolving Conflict
What is conflict? Where does it come from? “Conflict arises from a clash of perceptions, goals, or values in an arena where people care about the outcome.” (Rau-Foster, 2000) Despite its negative connotation of the word; conflict can have a positive impact. “Leaders who handle problems constructively can improve productivity, generate new ideas and personally develop team members.” (Fulbrook & Swales) In order to resolve conflict certain steps have to be followed. First identify the source and type. Next identify the consequences of conflict and lastly solutions to help resolve conflict if is should arise.
Types and Sources of Conflict
Regardless of how well a group works together there will always be conflict. “Conflict is not a phenomenon. We should not be surprised - and we're not surprised - to find that conflict is inevitable when more than one person is involved in any enterprise or endeavor. Conflict. It's a real part of our personal lives and a part of our working lives. The potential for conflict is always present. Conflict occurs in every normal human relationship.” (Burnside, Charles L, 1995)
Substantive and personalized conflicts are two types of conflict that exist in society. Simply put substantive conflict occurs when two individuals disagree on an issue. The outcome of this type of conflict can be positive if the two individuals can put their issues aside they can create a positive environment for themselves and those around them. Personalized conflict on the oth ...