Conflict is a part of everyday life, but in a team setting, the ability to effectively deal with conflict is essential. Conflict that goes unresolved can have negative impacts on the entire team; however, the ability to effectively deal with conflict can result in positive personal traits that can last a lifetime.
Complications
Conflict is inevitable in most personal relationships. Whether dealing with friends, family, coworkers or teammates, conflict is likely to enter your life at some time. Children, Youth and Women's Health Services states that ignoring conflict can cause further tension between teammates and may lead to aggression or violence. An unproductive method of dealing with conflict, such as accommodating the opposing party, will only prolong resolving the issue and will allow aggression to build in individuals involved.
Approach
The manner in which you approach conflict can effect the outcome of the situation. The Association for Applied Sport Psychology recommends teammates practice active listening in situations of conflict. Encouragement between conflicting parties to take turns speaking and listening allows everyone the chance to hear the underlying problem. Be sure to address the situation without attacking the other person. Avoid preaching, lecturing, advising and threatening when attempting to resolve conflicts. Give feedback to assure that you are understanding what the other person is trying to say. When the lines of communication are open and everyone understands the problem, the conflict has a better chance of being resolved.
Research
Nick Holt, a researcher from the University of Alberta, studied two closely competitive teenaged girls' sports teams and found that the teammates had developed skills in resolving conflict. Because conflict among teammates can hinder the success of the entire team, these teammates learned to keep arguments under control by quickly addressing the problem without any outside or adult assistance. This research demonstrates the potential benefits from learning to effectively deal with conflict.
Benefits
If dealt with successfully, you can build a better relationship with teammates, and even grow in understanding and valuing the input and opinions of others. Active listening, participating in effective communication and learning how to interact positively with others in a team setting prepares players for complications that may be met in life. Properly dealing with conflict can help ensure success on and off the playing field. Once these strategies are learned, conflicts can be easier to handle in all aspects of your life.
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