Chapter 14, Lesson 1 Prepared by V. Morrissey The Nature of Conflict Chapter 14, Lesson 1 Prepared by V. Morrissey

EQ: Compare and contrast the two major types of conflict and suggest healthful ways to respond to each. Objectives: Describe how conflicts develop Discuss ways to recognize conflict and its source Discuss how to respond healthfully to conflict

What Is Conflict? Any disagreement, struggle or fight Two types of conflict Interpersonal conflicts Internal conflicts Conflict is a normal part of life. Whenever your wants, needs values or beliefs clash with someone else’s, you are likely to experience it.

Interpersonal Conflict Disagreements between groups of any size Interpersonal conflicts can be between two people or two nations. These conflicts can begin over minor issues, and they can affect the lives of entire populations.

Internal Conflicts Struggles within yourself These are common in the teen years and often involve mixed emotions. Sometimes internal conflicts arise over what might appear to be a good choice at the moment, but may not be in the long run.

How Conflicts Develop Power Property Authority Jealousy Loyalty Space Territory Accidentally An act or remark Conflicts can begin in many ways and for many different reasons. Accidentally – knocking into someone in the hall An act or remark – a racial slur. At this point, the you can choose to let the situation drop, or to escalate. Learning to identify the warning signs that a conflict is brewing can help defuse it before it rages out of control. With your elbow buddy, come up with a scenario of how conflict could develop over one of the above.

Warning Signs of Conflict Physical Knot in stomach heart rate Sweating palms A sudden surge of energy Confrontational body language Emotional Feeling concerned Getting defensive Wanting to cry Wanting to lash out Not feeling valued Confrontational body language – clenched teeth or fists Recognizing Conflict: Decide whether the problem is something that really deserves your time and energy. You can identify the problem and its source by asking yourself some questions. What is really bothering me and why? What is triggering the conflict? Are hurt feelings or other emotions behind my anger? What is my part in the problem? Does the conflict involve my personal values or beliefs? What is at stake?

Responding to Conflict When a conflict arises you have two choices Face it Ignore it Sometimes teens jump into conflicts too lightly. They want to prove to those around them that they’re tough, cool or unafraid. They may also believe that getting out of a conflict is as easily as getting in. Once you get into a real- life conflict, there may be no way out.

Responding to Conflict When choosing what action to take, remember: Personal health and safety Walking away is a mature decision Walking away is not a sign of weakness