Introduction to Communication Lecture 10: Interpersonal and Conflict

Conflict Interpersonal Conflict – Power issues lack of equality in the relationship, friends, and time – Distance issues such as absences or job commitments – Distrust issues such as previous lovers or lying

Relationship conflicts Different perspective with others may create conflicts, even in relationship. Myths about conflicts – If two people in a relationship fight, it means they have a bad relationship – Fighting hurts an interpersonal relationship – Fighting is bad because it reveals our negative selves

Interpersonal Conflict Example

Cultural Context Cultural context is important when we try to understand and effectively manage conflict. Cultural influences not only the issues people fight about, but what people consider appropriate and inappropriate when dealing with conflict.

Cultural Context Japanese people generally see conflicts and their resolutions in terms of compromise Americans see conflict in terms of winning

Cultural Context – Japan: It’s especially important that you not embarrass the person with whom you are in in conflict – USA : Men and Women delivered their desires or complains openly and directly – Middle East: Women discourage to express the expression or desire

Conflict on the net To avoid and minimize: – Use Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Don’t shout, WRITING THIS AL CAPS IS PERCEIVED AS SHOUTING – Don’t spam – Don’t send commercial messages to those who didn’t request

Conflict styles Competing – I win, you lose Avoiding – I lose, you lose Accommodating – I lose, you win Collaborating – I win, you win Compromising – I win and lose, you win and lose

Before and After Before – `Try to arrange in private or groups try to embarrassing your sparing partner in the public After the conflict – Try to resolve, consider the usefulness of a cooling-off and regret

Effective Conflict Management Win-lose and Win-win Strategies Avoidance Talk Present Focused Assertive Strategies ( act best interest) Gunny sacking (storing up) Acceptance

Thank you