Assignment task: Write a 2 page article on interpersonal conflict. Define conflict and explain how communication behaviors and individual differences contribute to interpersonal conflict. Looking for Assignment Help?
Recommend a strategy for resolving interpersonal conflict.
Suppose you have been asked to write an article on interpersonal conflict for a local organization with which you are affiliated. You may choose any type of interpersonal conflict, such as between spouses, among family members, between members of a social group, or other, but your focus must be interpersonal conflict.
Instruction:
1. What Is Conflict?
- Define conflict in your own words.
- Explain why conflict is a natural and common part of life.
2. Why Does Conflict Occur?
- Discuss the reasons conflict arises, including differences in perspectives, belief systems, and values.
Provide examples of common conflicts you might encounter in daily life (e.g., disagreements with friends, family, or classmates).
3. Preventing Conflict
Suggest ways to prevent conflict from escalating.
Highlight the importance of good communication and understanding different viewpoints.
4. Learning from Conflict
- Reflect on the potential benefits of experiencing conflict.
- Explain how handling conflict well can improve relationships and personal growth.
5. Transforming Conflict From Negative to Positive
- Describe the difference between constructive and destructive conflict.
- Explain "the four horsemen" of destructive conflict as described by Hocker, Berry, and Wilmot (2022): criticizing, defensiveness, stonewalling, and contempt.
- Provide strategies for transforming conflict into a positive experience. Focus on constructive behaviors such as clear communication, active listening, and empathy.
6. Communication Behaviors in Conflict
Discuss the four paradigms of communication described by Krauss and Morsella (as cited in Coleman, Deutsch, & Marcus, 2014): encoding/decoding, intentionalist, perspective-taking, and dialogic.
Explain how these communication behaviors can help in managing and resolving conflicts.
Format:
- Your paper should be 2 pages long, double-spaced, and written in a clear, concise manner.
- Use APA format for citations and references.
- Include a title page and a references page (these do not count towards the page limit).