Section 2-4 Confl ict Resolution 51
Each person has a unique way of viewing and reacting to every
situation. When people live and work closely, as they do in families, in
friendships, and on the job, confl icts are bound to arise. A confl ict is a
struggle between two people or groups who have opposing views. The
ability to resolve a confl ict is an important skill in good communication.
Types of Confl icts
There are all types of confl icts. Some are small, such as a disagreement
between two people over a trivial matter, 2-9. You and a friend may disagree
over where to go after school. Disagreements can grow into larger confl icts if
the two people are not willing to reach an agreement peacefully.
Confl icts can also occur within families—between husbands and
wives, parents and children, or among siblings. Again, the confl icts can be
small and easily resolved. They can also be over important issues. Maybe
you and your parents disagree about how late you should be able to stay
out on weekend nights. Bringing up an issue that is causing a confl ict is
a good way to begin to deal with the problem. Listening to each other’s
views and talking about them can usually lead to good solutions.
Confl icts are not confi ned to interpersonal relationships. They can
occur between larger groups—even entire nations. Throughout the
world, there are nations that are at war with other nations. These, too,
Section 2-4
Confl ict Resolution
confl ict
scapegoating
negotiation
compromise
confl ict resolution
process
mediation
peer mediators
Objectives
After studying this section, you will be able to
•
identify some types and causes of confl ict.
•
explain possible negative and positive reactions to confl ict.
•
describe constructive and destructive methods of confl ict resolution.
•
list the steps in the confl ict resolution process.
•
explain the use of mediation.
Key Terms
Practice key terms with
crossword puzzles,
matching activities, and
e-fl ash cards for Chapter 2
at the website.
ompanion
Website
www.g-wlearning.com
Lawyer
Can you think of other careers
related to the chapter?
Link to
Careers