1. Conflict Resolution: Constructive versus Destructive
There are a variety of ways of resolving conflict.
Change in some form has to be accepted by both parties for successful resolution to occur.
A certain amount of give and take must occur.
Conflict resolution can only occur if both parties are willing to work together.
Success is reached when both parties come away from the ordeal with a strengthened relationship.
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2. Conflict Resolution: Constructive versus Destructive
People choose different ways of resolving life’s conflicts. The following list describes four constructive ways.
Consensus – Both individuals are able to see each other’s point of view and choose a solution that is beneficial for both of them.
Concession – One individual loses all while the other individual gains all.
Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.

3. Conflict Resolution: Constructive versus Destructive
Accommodation – Both individuals “agree to disagree.” They accept differences and agree not to allow these differences to grow into major problems.
Compromise – Both individuals give in and find a satisfactory acceptable agreement. The decisions are based upon a combination of their views.
Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech
University.

4. Conflict Resolution: Constructive versus Destructive
Negative reactions to conflict have the capability of destroying relationships. Many types of behaviors cause relationships to deteriorate. The following lists examples of destructive conflict resolution.
Attempting to prove who is right – this only extends and magnifies the conflict.
Blowing up – or getting angry damages the relationship through held grudges and hurt feelings.
Bagging – occurs when an individual saves up irritations, hurts, and anger rather than confronting issues as they develop.
Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech
University.

5. Conflict Resolution: Constructive versus Destructive
Personal attacking – ridiculing, belittling, using harsh words, rather than focusing on the problem at hand.
Lying – presenting false or dishonest information will eventually damage trust and cause the relationship to suffer.
Deceiving – concealing or misrepresenting the truth.
Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.