Conflict

In a story, conflict is the struggle between opposing forces In a story, conflict is the struggle between opposing forces. Without conflict, there is no plot!

Types of Conflict Person Vs. Self Person Vs. Person Person Vs. Nature Person Vs. Society Person Vs. Supernatural

Internal Conflict Person Vs. Self: The struggle or opposition is within one character--making a tough decision. A character struggling to overcome fear, addiction, emotional damage or other crippling personal issue.

Examples Choosing to listen in class instead of talking to your friend. A young lady wants to get on a roller coaster, but is afraid of heights. A woman is tempted to steal money from her employer in order to feed her family.

External Conflict Person Vs. Person: The struggle is between two or more characters in the story. Puts the protagonist directly against another character.

Examples A husband and wife disagree about how their money should be spent. Two little boys get into a fist fight. A boss fires an employee. A boxing match. Arguing over who won the card game.

Person Vs. Nature A character is experiencing a struggle against some element of nature- storm, disease epidemic, or dangerous animal.

Examples A tornado destroying someone’s house. A bear invading a camp site. A family is stranded in a snowstorm. A woman is unable to function because of illness or condition.

Person Vs. Society In many stories, the protagonist battles against an element of government or culture.

Examples A woman is in a hurry and runs a red light. A teenager breaks the curfew set by his parents. A man stands up for what he believes is right, even though almost everyone else disagrees with him.

Person Vs. Supernatural This could be any supernatural force that is outside the understanding of the protagonist, including monsters, aliens, or deities.