Four Conflict Resolution Techniques

Arguments and fights, in and of themselves, are unpleasant situations. However, they can be present in almost any area in which we need to relate to others. Plus, if we learn to manage them well, they can become a great opportunity to grow and improve our relationships. It is therefore essential that we learn some effective conflict resolution techniques.

In recent decades, disciplines such as psychology have taken an interest in the development of some of these techniques. In today’s article you will find out which are the most commonly used. That way, the next time you come across a complicated situation, you will have effective conflict resolution techniques. But first let’s see why these techniques are really necessary. E st really important to study them? Can we act as we see fit in complex situations?

Why are conflict resolution techniques needed?

Arguments are almost inevitable in areas like work and family. When we have to live with other people, it is normal for our ideas or preferences to collide at some point. This can be due to many causes. For example, differences of opinion, personal stress, power games or personal quarrels.

If we do not deal with these issues properly, they can worsen or become chronic, causing conflict that lasts over time. When this happens, our emotional state is weighed down. We take a burden and take it wherever we go… no matter how proud we try to be and say we don’t care.

Thus, for example, in the work environment, the general climate will be aggravated. This way, employees will be less motivated. In the family environment, conflicts generate a lot of tension. If conflict resolution techniques are not used, arguments can end up alienating some family members.

However, with the right techniques, what turned out to be a disaster can be a trivial matter. Knowing the best conflict resolution techniques will therefore help you improve your relationships with others. In addition, it will allow you to improve yourself as a mediator in cases where the discussions have nothing to do with you.

Some Known Conflict Resolution Techniques

While there are many tools for dealing with arguments, some are definitely more effective than others. In this article, we’ll look at the following:

• Avoidance
• Adaptation
• Compromise
• Collaboration

Let’s take a look at each of them, along with their pros and cons:

1- Avoidance

Avoidance is one of the first conflict resolution techniques that we tend to use most often, especially among introverted people. But it is also one of the least effective in general. It is simply to withdraw from a situation in which there is a threat of an argument or which already exists. However, there are times when conflicts, by avoiding them, escalate.

On the contrary, it can be useful when the conflict can be resolved by itself and the consequences of the conflict are not serious. She will also come in handy when the situation is very tense and there is a danger of her or the other expressing ideas that he or she does not really mean.

The key is not to let it become our only strategy, to use it intelligently. If we only use it when it is most useful, avoidance can become a strategy to apply.

2- Adaptation

Adaptation consists of finding points of agreement between the two parties to a conflict, while trying not to lose an objective view of the bigger picture. Conflict or confrontation can arise in any given area, but that does not mean that the disagreement is complete. However, what is so easy to see from the outside, when the “fight” begins and we give it a high priority, keeping that point of view is not that simple.

Also, by reducing the intensity and focusing on the chord points, it will be easier to find an exit chord. In reality, harmony can be restored in the group, even if the underlying discussion is not fully resolved. Again, adaptation shouldn’t be your only strategy. Finally, we can say that it is useful when it is most important to maintain cordiality and seek a basis on which to strike a deal.

3- Compromise

The next conflict resolution technique is to find common ground between the needs of both parties. This tool is especially useful when everyone involved in the discussion needs to win.

Thus, the conflict loses its intensity and one can gain time to find a more stable solution. However, while both sides win to some extent, neither gets everything they want. They can therefore remain dissatisfied even after negotiations. However, at least one reconciliation of positions can occur. In addition, this type of test allows us to see how a solution can work in reality and not just on paper.

4- Collaboration

Collaboration is the most difficult conflict resolution technique to implement, but it is also one of the most effective. It consists of mediating a disagreement until both parties are able to find a solution. It may take a lot of time and resources, but it is the only way to come to a solution that will leave parties satisfied with the outcome.

Of course, there are many other techniques for resolving conflicts. However, these four elements are among the most commonly used. Practice them and apply them to different situations. You will see how the frequency and intensity of your discussions will decrease.

Our thoughts

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