Analyze Changes In Personal Definition Of Conflic ✓ Solved
For your final assignment, utilize the scholarly resources and the knowledge garnered through completing this course concerning the conflict resolution process and your role in it. Identify and evaluate your (perhaps renewed) approach in handling conflict with respect to communication skills, interaction style, and group interaction skill sets. Include areas where your thoughts on conflict have been changed due to new knowledge. Prepare for your assignment completing the “Measuring Your Conflict Style” application in Chapter 5 of the Wilmot and Hocker (2013) text.
Be sure to answer the following questions in your paper:
- In a conflict situation, do you tend to avoid, compete, compromise, accommodate, or collaborate?
- Does your approach differ depending on if the conflict occurs in a personal situation/encounter at home or in a professional setting while at work?
- Do you feel confident when you enter conflict situations, or do you feel that your behavior leaves something to be desired? Use examples of your behavior to support your claims.
- What behaviors and/or skill sets do you desire to further enhance in conflict situations? Use examples of your behavior to support your claims.
In a worksheet, (a) identify the specific leadership behaviors you wish to change, (b) explain what you will do to effect change in these areas, and (c) explain how you will know whether you have achieved your leadership goals.
Your paper must demonstrate comprehension, application, analysis, assessment, and integration of the research. Paper Length: 8–12 pages, not including title and reference pages. Worksheet Length: One worksheet with a minimum of three skills identified for enhancement. References: A minimum of seven scholarly resources required.
Paper For Above Instructions
Introduction
Conflict is a fundamental part of both personal and professional interactions, influencing how we communicate and collaborate. Through this paper, I will analyze the evolution of my personal definition of conflict and my conflict resolution style, utilizing both course materials and a self-assessment tool from the Wilmot and Hocker (2013) textbook. My approach to conflict has matured as I have gained new insights into the dynamics of conflict and resolution, guided by communication skills, interaction styles, and group interaction competencies.
Personal Conflict Style
In conflict situations, I tend to lean towards collaboration. Collaboration involves both parties working together to find a mutually beneficial solution, reflecting a high degree of assertiveness and cooperativeness (Wilmot & Hocker, 2013). In practice, this means actively listening to the other party's concerns while clearly expressing my own. For instance, in a recent disagreement with a colleague on a project direction, I organized a meeting where both perspectives could be openly discussed, resulting in a solution that synthesized our ideas. This collaborative approach has generally led to richer, more sustainable outcomes than when I have resorted to competing or avoiding behaviors.
Contextual Differences in Conflict Approach
My approach to handling conflicts does indeed vary between personal and professional contexts. At home, I tend to avoid conflicts to maintain harmony, fearing confrontation may lead to emotional fallout. For example, I often defer to my partner's preferences in minor issues, believing that collaboration will be easier once emotions settle. Conversely, in professional settings, my tendency to collaborate emerges more prominently. The structured environment of work compels me to strive for resolutions that meet the collective goals of the team. However, I recognize that there is value in balancing these styles; my avoidance at home can lead to later misunderstandings or resentment.
Confidence in Conflict Situations
Entering conflict situations, my confidence fluctuates. While I feel equipped to handle workplace disagreements using my collaborative style, personal conflicts often leave me feeling inadequate. My behavior during conflicts sometimes feels reactive or defensive, particularly when I sense heightened emotions. For instance, a heated discussion about household responsibilities led to my raising my voice, which undermined my intent. Reflecting on this moment highlighted a gap in my skills, specifically my ability to manage emotional responses and remain calm under pressure.
Areas for Enhancement
To become more effective in conflict situations, I have identified several skills for enhancement. Primarily, I want to improve my anger management skills. In the example above, my anger led to a breakdown in communication, emphasizing the need for better self-regulation. I will develop this skill by practicing techniques such as deep breathing and counting to ten before reacting. I will gauge my success by monitoring the frequency of my outbursts and soliciting feedback from my partner.
Another area is perspective-taking, which is crucial for understanding the other party's viewpoint. I often find myself too focused on defending my position, causing me to miss valuable insights from the other side. By asking clarifying questions during conflicts and making a conscious effort to validate others' feelings, I will assess my advancement through journaling my reflections after discussions.
Worksheet Example
| Specific Skill for Enhancement | Steps to be Taken to Improve It | Means of Assessing |
|---|---|---|
| Anger management | 1. Practice deep breathing before responding. 2. Count to ten before reacting. 3. Use I-statements for self-expression. | Monitor cut-down of outbursts. Feedback from partner. Self-assessment on emotional control. |
| Perspective-taking | 1. Ask clarifying questions. 2. Validate feelings and opinions of others. 3. Share my understanding of their viewpoint. | Journal reflections post-conflict. Peer feedback on interactions. |
Conclusion
My evolving understanding of conflict emphasizes the importance of communication, flexibility in approach, and self-awareness. Through articulating my conflict styles and strategies for improvement, the potential for growth is evident—not only in my personal relationships but also within my professional environment. Enhancing my skills in anger management and perspective-taking can lead to more meaningful engagements during conflicts, ensuring that I approach these situations with confidence and clarity.
References
- Kubler-Ross, E. (1997). On Death and Dying. Scribner.
- Page, S. E. (2007). The Difference: How the Power of Diversity Creates Better Groups, Firms, Schools, and Societies. Princeton University Press.
- Schein, E. H. (2010). Organizational Culture and Leadership. Jossey-Bass.
- Wilmot, W. W., & Hocker, J. L. (2013). Interpersonal Conflict. McGraw-Hill.
- Fisher, R., Ury, W., & Patton, B. (2011). Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In. Penguin Books.
- Stone, D., Patton, B., & Heen, S. (2010). Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most. Penguin Books.
- Deutsch, M. (2011). Theory of Cooperation and Competition. Routledge.
- Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books.
- Robinson, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2019). Organizational Behavior. Pearson.
- Maxwell, J. C. (2011). Everyone Communicates, Few Connect: What the Most Effective People Do Differently. Thomas Nelson.