Conflict Resolution

According to the Oxford English Dictionary conflict may be defined as ‘the clashing or variance of opposed principles or beliefs’ (2002, p. 484). Conflict, in itself, may be both good and bad; however the physical outcome of that conflict determines whether or not such a conflict is constructive or destructive.

Advantages of conflict can include:

1. People change and grow personally from the conflict
2. The conflict results in a solution to a problem
3. It increases the involvement of everyone affected by the conflict
4. It builds cohesiveness among the members of a team

(Capozzoli 1995, p. 2).

For example, as most conflicts are the result of clashing opinions or principles one of the possible advantages of conflict, if properly resolved, may involve the personal growth and development by changing an individual or group’s perception of something. Furthermore, this resolution may actually result in the development of a solution to a problem. Although not always the case, conflict may at times, increase the involvement of everyone within a group or organization. Lastly, through its resolution, a group or organsation may develop a more cohesive relationship.

Disadvantages of conflict may include:

1. No decision is reached and the problem still exist
2. It diverts energy from more value adding activities or issues
3. It destroys the morale of teams or individual teams members
4. It polarizes or divides teams or groups of people.

(Capozzoli 1995, p. 2).

When no decision is reached and the problem remains group separation may result, while no solution to the problem actually develops. Also, when the conflict begins to divert energy from the more valuable activities, conflict become disadvantageous and ultimately, detrimental to the effective and efficient goal outcomes of the organisation. When conflict starts to destroy the morale of teams or individual team members, it degrades the positive perception of those within the organisation, and furthermore decreases the goal outcomes of the organization. Lastly, disadvantageous conflict may polarize or divide teams within the organsation, resulting in a reduced overall team, and the production of more groups of people (as opposed to teams).