LIFE SKILLS & VALUE EDUCATION – CLASS-XI – UNIT- 3 Conflict Management

“The quality of our lives depends not on whether or not we have conflicts, but on how we respond to them.” – Thomas Crum

WHAT IS CONFLICT?

A conflict arises when two individuals have different opinions, values, and needs. In simple terms. Conflict is nothing but a sort of fight between two or more individuals. We all are humans and that is why we all can’t think in a similar manner, we have differences in our thought process and understanding. Disagreements among individuals results in conflict and fights. Conflicts should be resolved quickly and effectively. For example, Rahul and Sangeeta are working together for a science project. One day, they were asked to give their opinion on the project assigned to them, by their science teacher. There was a major clash in their understanding of the project and both could not agree to each other’s opinion. Rahul wanted to start the project in some different manner as compared to Sangeeta. The outcome was the difference in their opinions which resulted in conflict between both of them.

   RESULT: Due to the disagreement in interests, thinking process and attitude Rahul and Sangeeta entered into a conflict which resulted in non-completion of the project. Conflicts and fights with each other never result in any conclusion. People involved in Conflicts should openly discuss their differences through problem- solving, attitude

   Clarify issues and participative involvement to arrive at meaningful solution. Healthy Discussions are always a better and wise choice than conflicts and fights.

      TYPES OF CONFLICTS-

1. Internal Conflict: Commonly known as self conflict. When a person struggles with his own opposing desires or beliefs. Example: a student thinking on cheating in his/her test.
2. External Conflict: Conflict with someone else. Conflict between a person and someone else. Example: Two kids fighting over a ball.

There can be some more forms of conflicts like verbal conflict, emotional conflict, social conflict, personal conflict or organizational conflict.

    Whatever be the type of conflict, it will never result in productive outcome.

    Therefore, a person should make efforts to find conflict resolution strategies.

     STRATEGIES FOR CONFLICT RESOLUTION-

    Conflicts can be resolved, when people attempt to end their disagreements to find a peaceful solution.This will result in creating peace and harmony among people thereby resulting in Better interpersonal relations. Conflicts which remain unattended can result in Strained relationships, stress, anxiety or even war among countries.      

1. Stay cool off: We are all aware that conflicts are not good for mental peace and health. So whenever you are upset on a conflict, stay cool and calm so that you can think and understand clearly. Do some exercise like deep breathing, relax yourself and stay calm.
2. Collaborating (Win-Win Situation): Most commonly used conflict resolution strategy. Collaboration involves an attempt to work with other persons to find a win-win solution for the problem in hand. The win-win approach will help a person to find mutually beneficial solutions for both. It helps a person to understand other person’s concerns and find alternatives which are beneficial for both.
3. Active Listening: Active listening focuses on being attentive to what other persons say. This will help to clear any confusion and remove the chances of misunderstanding. You can use the words like: I hear you saying…… I think you mean…. I agree with you…. This will result in a two way communication and hence will leave less scope of misunderstanding disagreements.
4. Being Assertive: An assertive person will honour both you and others. Speak directly to the person you are in conflict with. You express your ideas, opinions, views very clearly, openly and kindly to the other person. An assertive person will clearly speak about how he feels about the conflict. For example, “I felt bad that you talked wrong about me to my friend”.
5. Brainstorming Sessions: Brainstorming sessions will help you to find as many solutions as possible for a particular problem. Don’t judge or criticize anyone as it will prevent creative thinking of a person. Choose the best solution among all suggested which is beneficial for all.
6. Third Party Mediator: A mediator is a person who doesn’t belong to any of the conflicting groups or individuals. This person is a neutral person who will listen to both the sides and explain their position to one another. This person will give a

fair solution to the problem beneficial for both the parties

PRACTICE CONFLICT RESOLUTION SKILLS-

• Conflict resolution techniques can help you to avoid or solve conflicts in an effective manner.

   •Use yes, and statements.

   •Don’t point fingers on others.

   •Listen to other persons opinions and respect them.

   • Avoid using I statements.

   • Don’t talk behind people’s back.

   • Always show your willingness to resolve conflicts.    

• Always remember relationships are precious.

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