Conflict and Power, Research Paper Example

Conflict is something that people encounter on a daily basis in one form or another. Conflict occurs when two parties or entities see things differently or they clash in some way. Merriam-Webster defines conflict as “a struggle for power” and “a strong disagreement” (Conflict, n.d.). Additionally, the definition is expanded to explain that conflict is a struggle that stems from opposing demands, which is often referred to as interpersonal conflict between people. According to Wilmot & Hocker (2011), interpersonal skills are needed when resolving conflict among people. These are the types of skills that people use when interacting with each other in positive ways, and include good communication skills such as a non-threatening tone of voice and effective listening skills.

Conflict arises from disagreements and is categorized into various types. Five of the most often encountered conflict types are data conflicts, relationship conflicts, values conflicts, structural conflicts and interest conflicts.

Data Conflicts

There are times when people get into conflicting situations when they do not have the proper information to make certain decisions. This is how data conflicts occur. In addition, misinformation is the culprit with this type of conflict, and results in people disagreeing on the correct data and how it is to be interpreted, because they do not have all the facts in a situation (Furlong, 2005). This type of conflict often results from poor communication.

Relationship Conflicts

Conflicts in the area of relationships often occur due to negative behaviors or stereotypes. Problems in relationships cause arguments and disputes that stem from negative emotions brought on by conflicting situations. Sometimes relationship conflicts result from past negative experiences between people. Relationship conflicts can also result from bad communication or be the cause of it, for which people often retaliate (Cahn & Abigail, 2011).

Values Conflicts

Values conflicts occur from opposing beliefs among people. Everyone has their own belief systems and value things differently. When belief systems are not compatible, it often results in conflict. What people value shows what they perceive as good or bad and many people often try to impose their own beliefs on other people, which cause strife. Values are in various categories such as those stemming from religious, moral or ethical beliefs, as well as loyalty (Furlong, 2005).

Structural Conflicts

The causes of structural conflicts are often associated with external forces that people have little control over. Examples of this are limited resources, not enough money, no one in authority, distance limitations, not enough time, etc. In the workplace, organizational structure can also be flawed, resulting in conflict due to disorganization and missed deadlines (Furlong, 2005).

Interest Conflicts

Conflicts with interest often occur due to a clash of needs between parties. This is tricky because a conflict of interest occurs when one party satisfies its own needs or desires, while sacrificing its obligation to the other party. This type of conflict is often a result of desire for money, trust, resources, time, power, etc.

Analysis

The most focus was given to values and interest conflicts. This likely occurred because we all have our own tendencies to self-preserve. We all have a need and a desire to take care of what we want and this means making decisions based on our values and belief systems. Additionally, our own interests tie into this concept as well. Sometimes conflicts of interest occur because people feel like they have a right to make sure they are taken care of at all times. For example, a person may feel he or she has a right to operate a home business in the same line of work as the company in which he or she is employed. This could be because that is the only type of work the person knows and may need the extra income.

This assignment has taught me that conflict is diverse and I can use the information from this assignment to better recognize various types of conflict when I encounter them. This will help me better cope with the conflict and give me insights into being a part of resolving the conflict. This is good because unresolved conflict has consequences, even though it does often initiate needed changes in relationships, whether they be personal or in the workplace.

Conflict can be both good and bad, but unresolved conflict that is negative is definitely bad. Wilmot & Hocker (2011) point out that conflict management involves limiting the negative impact of conflict and increasing positive results from conflict. In addition, they say that conflict management is a way to enhance learning and initiate better outcomes. In other words, conflict does not necessarily need to be eliminated, just managed.

Everyone faces conflicting situations in various areas of life, both personal and professional, and it is a good idea to be aware of it and know how to handle it in a way that fosters solutions to problems and resolutions to the conflict.

References

Cahn, D. D., & Abigail, R. A. (2011). Managing Conflict through Communication. Pearson Education, Inc.

Furlong, G. T. (2005). The Conflict Resolution Toolbox: Models and Maps for Analyzing, Diagnosing, and Resolving Conflict. Wiley.

Conflict. (n.d.). Retrieved from Merriam-Webster: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conflict

Wilmot, W., & Hocker, J. (2011). Interpersonal Conflict . McGraw-Hill Humanities.