2. CONFLICT
This is a word that causes most of us a great
degree of discomfort, anger, frustration,
sadness and pain.
The dictionary defines “conflict” as a struggle
to resist or overcome, contest of opposing
forces or powers, strife, battle. A state or
condition of opposition, antagonism, discord.
A painful tension set up by a clash between
opposed and contradictory impulses.
3. CONFLICT IN THE WORKPLACE
A simple disagreement between team
members, if unresolved may escalate into
avoidance, inability to work together, verbal
assaults, and resentment.
In the worst cases, it may also lead to
hostility and eventual separation from the
organization. Therefore, it is important that
the confict be resolved as soon as possible.
4. TYPLICAL DEFINITIONS OF CONFLICT
Disagreeing with another
Complaints about our performance
Criticism of our behavior or attitude
Fighting with another
Stress inducing event in which we are confronted in a negative
way
A threat to our control
An anger producing event
A threat to our security
Taking a risk
Risking the loss of acceptance.
A time when no one is communicating
Defending our rights when they are being ignored.
5. POSSITIVE SENSE OF CONFLICT
Time of growth for the parties involved.
Timey which problems can be solved creatively by
looking together at a variety of alternatives.
Chance to evaluate our performance objectively.
Time for us to increase our knowledge of one
another.
Chance to reveal our unique ways of thinking, acting
and feeling.
Chance to show understanding, respect and
acceptance of the unique ways in which others think,
act and feel.
6. Chance to be the “Devil’s advocate” in regard
to our position, attitudes, and beliefs.
Opportunity to clarify our roles and functions
in certain situations.
Process by which feelings ultimately can be
aired openly and freely.
Compromise that will leave all parties
involved in a winning situation.
Moment of honesty, which can result in a
lifetime of improved communication.
Way in which we recognize our deficiencies
and brainstorm alternatives to correct them.
Time to clarify our expectations of others.
