Some people love a good fight, while others skillfully avoid confrontation, either disregarding issues and suppressing feelings or disassociating completely with the individuals or groups with whom they are at odds. Neither method is an effective way to deal with conflict, as it discounts conflict's many benefits. Conflict sheds light on problems and concerns that might otherwise remain ignored. If issues are resolved constructively, conflict has the opportunity to bring about social, psychological and material change.
Interpersonal Conflict
Interpersonal conflict occurs when the needs and goals of an individual conflict with those of another. As soon as we wake up in the morning we are vulnerable to some sort of interpersonal conflict. Disagreements are bound to arise ranging from simple conflicts such as where to go to lunch or who should take out the garbage, to more significant issues such as how to raise the children or run a business. The benefit of interpersonal conflict comes from the way in which we choose to deal with the discord. Productive resolution methods strengthen relationships; when a quarrel is constructively resolved trust is gained. Counterproductive behaviors such as blaming and name-calling, however, weaken relationships, perpetuating reactive emotions of distrust, hurt and frustration.
Intrapersonal Conflict
Intrapersonal conflicts are our internal struggles, which can manifest as indecisiveness, depression, remorse or anxiety. While intrapersonal conflicts are serious and sometimes life threatening, if managed effectively they can lead to positive growth and change. The support of group or individual counseling can help guide you through challenging intrapersonal conflicts. The effort to resolve interpersonal conflict is well worth it. Researchers from Japan's Sophia University found that individuals who effectively engaged in intrapersonal conflict resolution were able to positively affect interpersonal conflicts as well.
Parent-Child Conflict
As early as the age of two, children are forcefully asserting their new found sense of self, and conflict between parent and child is unavoidable. Conflict increases during adolescence, when deductive reasoning powers are strengthened and "because I said so," is no longer a legitimate explanation. Adolescents and teenagers require a more concrete and logical justification for parental rules and expectations. Parent-child conflict is beneficial when parents are able to adopt beneficial conflict styles. A beneficial conflict style is one that acknowledges the other individual's motivations and desires and creates an open forum for discussing thoughts and feelings with no one individual dominating the discussion. Cornell University researchers at ACT for Youth suggest a method called "psychological autonomy granting," which encourages parents to accept their child's beliefs, even when those beliefs contradict their own.
Workplace Conflict
The workplace is a breeding ground for conflict. Deadlines, heavy workloads, cramped quarters, it's a wonder we make it out alive everyday. But the workplace is also a playground for creative and innovative problem solving. Differences of opinion can highlight problems and lead to careful deliberation and strategically-designed solutions. As long as the conflict does not escalate and involved parties are dedicated to both fighting for their perspectives and uncovering a solution, workplace conflict promises benefits.
Environmental Resource Conflict
According to a report issued by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), declining environmental resources, while responsible for worsening international and intranational conflict, also provide an opportunity for unification and peace. The effort to maintain acceptable environmental conditions creates a platform for international unification and cooperation. The scarcity of resources such as oil has led to increased efforts to provide alternative energy sources. Environmental conflict stimulates the creation of innovative technology that promotes the use of sustainable resources.
Military Conflict
Although military conflict results in the mass destruction of lives and resources, the benefits of this type of conflict are likewise weighty. Military conflict stimulates the economy as wartime jobs are created and millions are employed. Technological and medical advancements are continually achieved as a result of military conflict. World War I introduced the first blood banks, and more recent wars in the Middle East have contributed to advancements in orthopedics, trauma transport and surgery.
Diplomatic Conflict
Diplomatic conflict is a nonviolent form of conflict that, if not handled delicately, can escalate to violence. Diplomatic conflict provides the opportunity to explore conflict resolution without the use of warfare and with the use of diplomatic discussion and understanding. Negotiating diplomatic conflict successfully can increase understanding between individuals, groups and nations, thereby helping to create and strengthen bonds.
Data Conflict
Data conflict is the result of differing interpretations of data, a lack of data, different assessment procedures or misinformation. This type of conflict is beneficial if both parties can acknowledge a possible breakdown in communication as the root cause and work to fix underlying communication issues. When data conflicts occur because of legitimate incompatibilities with data compilation or interpretation, beneficial data solutions are usually produced.
Intergroup Conflict
A difference in social norms and principles, particularly religion, leads to conflict among divergent groups of people. Group conflict does not have to escalate to violence; it can open the door to connection, understanding, and mutual respect. Sociologist Lewis Coser, in his book "The Functions of Social Conflict," explains that group conflict permits the opportunity to interact with a group of people with whom one would not normally connect.
Intragroup Conflict
Intragroup conflict occurs between members who are on the same team and share a common set of values and goals, but perhaps differ on how to reach those aims. Successfully negotiated group conflict can lead to a more cohesive unit. Conflict can bring a much-needed release of tension among group members who interact closely and often, as long as the conflict is handled in a professional manner. Intragroup conflict also strengthens group values and reestablishes rank and authority.
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