Conflict is a normal part of the workplace and while it can be negative, alarming, and difficult to get through, it can also lead opportunities for growth and can be a facilitator to change because of resulting improved understanding and insight.
Conflict is normal in the workplace. This is because people who have different values, goals, and perspectives work together, often on projects that can be complex and stress-provoking. In these types of situations, it is not surprising that conflict can occur. But if we develop procedures for identifying, defining, and managing conflict, then we can constructively manage conflict and take advantage of its opportunities.
Conflict includes a threat to someone’s needs, concerns, or interests. In defining conflict, it is important to realize that conflict can result from you striving for the outcomes you prefer, and also from your actions that prevent others from getting the outcome they want.
Problem solving strategies are essential for successful conflict management. Applying a problem-solving approach to conflict management helps to transition a potentially negative situation to one that allows us to consider new possibilities.
Definitions of Conflict:
Merriam-Webster Dictionary: 1. A struggle for power, property, etc. 2. Strong disagreement between people, groups, etc., that results in often angry argument 3. A difference that prevents agreement: disagreement between ideas, feelings, etc.
Collins Dictionary: Conflict is serious disagreement and argument about something important. If two people or groups are in conflict, they have had a serious disagreement or argument and have not yet reached agreement. Conflict is a state of mind in which you find it impossible to make a decision.
Oxford Dictionary: A situation in which people, groups or countries disagree strongly or are involved in a serious argument; a situation in which there are ideas, opinions, feelings or wishes that are opposed to each other; a situation in which it is difficult to choose.
“Conflict happens because everybody is unique. We all interpret and communicate ideas differently, and we don’t always have the same priority or point of view. Conflict can be looked at as unhealthy and harmful, and it can often stress us out and lower our happiness and productivity. However, when we use conflict to develop better understandings with those around us, it can be a positive experience.” — 7 Winning Conflict Strategies, Gerard Shaw
Conflict is “a rupture, disconnection, or unresolved issue between two people (outer conflict) or inside of you (inner conflict).” — Getting to Zero: How to Work Through Conflict in Your High-Stakes Relationships, Jayson Gaddis
“Conflict may be defined as the existence or perception of an impediment to one’s core needs, values or goals.” — Conflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills for Preventing, Managing and Resolving Conflict, Jeremy Pollack
Conflict is Avoidable.
Conflict is an inevitable part of human interaction. It arises from disagreements often rooted in differing values, goals, and perspectives. It’s important to recognize that not everyone will like or agree with one another, nor will everyone be able to collaborate effectively.
Conflict Leads to Inappropriate Reactions.
While some reactions to conflict may be inappropriate, others can be quite justified. For instance, in sports, referees intervene when players are in conflict, which is an appropriate response. However, if fans react by physically attacking referees, that behaviour is inappropriate.
Conflict Causes Polarization in Organizations.
Conflict can indeed lead to polarization, where groups within an organization or community develop vastly different opinions or beliefs. For example, a community might split over whether to build a new hospital or maintain the existing one.
We Should Avoid Conflict.
Since conflict is a natural occurrence, we should anticipate it, much like we do with other unavoidable aspects of life. It’s futile to try to eliminate all conflict, as it can sometimes lead to beneficial outcomes.
Conflict can have both constructive and destructive consequences, so it’s crucial to discern when it should be resolved and when it can be leveraged for growth.
