How would you define conflict?

From an organizational point of view, we’ll suggest that a disagreement is a change to a relationship that disrupts the normal routine. Conflict is more serious, and is a consequence of the disagreement. Conflict includes a threat to someone’s needs, concerns, or interests. Conflict is a normal part of the workplace and while it can be negative, alarming, and difficult to get through, it can also lead to tremendous opportunities for growth and a facilitator to change because of resulting improved understanding and insight.

In defining conflict, it is important to realize that conflict can result from you striving for the outcomes you prefer, and your actions that prevent others from getting the outcome they want.

Conflict is pretty normal in the workplace, where people with different values, goals, and perspectives manage complex and stress-provoking projects. As a result, conflict can be predicted. If we develop procedures for identifying, defining, and managing conflict, then we can constructively manage conflict and take advantage of its opportunities.

Problem solving strategies are essential for successful conflict management. Applying a problem solving approach to conflict management helps to transition a potentially negative situation to one that allows us to entertain new possibilities.