Relational Influences: Conflict Resolution

Question 1

Define: Conflict

Answer 1

Occurs when perception that 2 parties have incompatible goals, ideas and behaviour, or when individual’s needs not met.

Question 2

Define: Mirror-image perceptions

Answer 2

Each party forms reciprocal and distorted perceptions of other that are alike

Attributions can escalate hostility.

Question 3

Types of Solutions to Resolve Conflict

Answer 3

◦ Imposed
◦ Distributive
◦ Integrative

Question 4

Define: Imposed solutions

Answer 4

One party ‘stronger’ or has more authority, dictate or force solution

May be imposed by 3rd party

Win-lose

Doesn’t resolve underlying conflict.

Question 5

Define: Distributive solutions

Answer 5

Compromise or mutual concession

Industrial dispute - wage set between employers and employees desired level.

Question 6

Define: Integrative solutions

Answer 6

Both parties benefit from decision reached

Address motives > specific demands

Win-win

Understanding motives, values and goals => difficult.

Question 7

Techniques to Resolve Conflict

Answer 7

◦ Mediation
◦ Negotiation
◦ Counselling

Question 8

Define: Mediation

Answer 8

3rd party brought in to help settle conflict

Arbitration, imposed

Mediators: (FAR)

1) Focus - help focus on issues and reach voluntary solution, distributive or integrative
2) Arrange - arrange times, venues and agendas => avoid more conflict
3) Relationships - improve relationship between parties => common ground, new ideas and perspectives, stop parties getting themselves into untenable positions.

Question 9

Define: Negotiation

Answer 9

Parties who have some shared/opposing interests try to reach agreement

Successful => integrative

Fail to understand other’s position and goals => breakdown

Thompson & Hastic (1990)

Question 10

Define: Counselling

Answer 10

Parties work with counsellor to develop skills to help deal with conflict or solve directly

Skills learned => solve current and help avoid future conflicts

Counsellors: (FLA)

1) Functioning - recognise strengths and resources to improve psychological functioning. Help clients solve problems > providing solutions
2) Listening - help improve listening skills => actually hear what other is saying
3) Assertiveness - help develop to express opinions and concerns clearly and forcefully without aggression.