1. MANAGING CONFLICT

2. A common problem
Everyone, whatever their age, experiences conflicts. The ability to resolve conflicts is a skill that must be learned and practised. Some people develop this skill better than others!

3. Starting point
There are two key things to remember when dealing with conflicts: 1 Conflicts cannot be solved by ignoring them. 2 Conflicts cannot be solved by force. This holds true however great the conflict.

4. Reducing conflict
Key aspects for reducing conflict:
Communication – listen, look and speak carefully.
Respect – people have the right to disagree with you. Treat them fairly without prejudice.
Self-control – anger and sarcasm are unhelpful, express feelings thoughtfully.
Co-operation – teach children to work together and trust each other.

5. Supporting resolutions
If you need to act to support children and young people in resolving their conflicts:
encourage them to take turns when talking
ask them to suggest how they would like the conflict to be resolved
look for practical solutions
discourage blaming
consider whether a break or a period of reflection might be useful.

6. Developmental stage
The ability to resolve conflicts will depend on the child or young person’s development. A child who does not yet have the ability to understand how another feels will also find understanding another’s views difficult in a conflict situation.

7. Activity
Think of an occasion when you have come into conflict with a member of your family, a friend or a colleague. How do you normally react to conflict? Consider how you might benefit from following the guidance in this presentation.