Human Behavior Ch. 7—Becoming Aware CONFLICT Human Behavior Ch. 7—Becoming Aware
What is Conflict? Conflict: struggle between at least two people who perceive a situation differently and are experiencing interference from the other person in achieving their goals Conflict: perception that one person’s goals, plans, and aspirations are incompatible with another’s
What causes conflicts? Control over resources Preferences & nuisances Values Beliefs Goals Nature of relationship between 2 people Q. Is conflict considered a bad thing in our culture?
Negative Effects of Conflict Positive effects of Conflict Negative Effects of Conflict Promotes growth in a relationship Allows for a healthy release of feelings Increases motivation and self- esteem How? If we believe that there will always be a winner and a loser Larger problems may occur if conflict is handled inappropriately
Styles of Conflict: Avoiding You avoid the conflict Hope that it will just ‘disappear’ Okay if not an important relationship Results in greater misunderstandings, resentment, and hurt feelings Lose-lose situation
Styles of Conflict: ACCOMODATING/HARMONIZING Passively give into the other party Prefer harmony to conflict Desire to be liked Believe that conflict is bad for relationships May develop feelings of resentment if used too much Lose-Win
Styles of Conflict: COMPETING Aggressive, uncooperative behavior Feelings of resentment and hostility may result Often legitimately made by figures in authority May create feelings of wanting to get even and compete Win-lose or lose-lose
Styles of Conflict: COLLABORATING Both parties work to resolve the conflict with the best solution agreeable to all parties Called the problem solving strategy Encourages openness and honesty Produces trust and respect Win-win
Styles of Conflict: COMPROMISING Resolve conflict through assertive cooperation Value harmony as well as individual satisfaction ‘Everyone gets something’ Conflict is resolved, relationships are maintained Partial lose-lose