Communication and Conflict

First, some background:

I’m not a stranger to conflict:

-Church business meeting and softball-Hunting-In front of the church—”As an eagle stirs her nest, so God his

people”-Higher Ed.

The “Talkin’ Candy Bar Blues” by Peter, Paul, and Mary

Listen to the words of the Philosopher Kenneth Boulding:

Communication and Conflict More Background

What is conflict from a communication perspective?

“Verbally and nonverbally expressed disagreement”

Three Types of Conflict

Note: Much of the remaining material in this slide show is from John Stewart of the University of Washington

1. Image Conflict

2. Content Conflict

3. Value Conflict

Now, some examples/explanations of each:

The Four Elements of Conflict Are:

Me, You, Context, and Topic

Me You

Context Topic

Four Styles of Handling Conflict

1. Placating

2. Pouncing

3. Computing

4. Distracting

Each of these styles cancels out one or more of the important elements of a conflict situation? Which for each?

Styles of Canceling Conflict

Placating cancels the . . . ?

Me You

Context Topic

Styles of Canceling Conflict

Placating cancels the . . . ?

Me You

Context Topic

Styles of Canceling Conflict

Pouncing cancels the . . .?

Me You

Context Topic

Styles of Canceling Conflict

Computing cancels the . . . ?

Me You

Context Topic

Styles of Canceling Conflict

Distracting cancels the . . . ?

Me You

Context Topic

Some Interpretation Concerning Styles of Conflict Management

They are inherently communication choices. They are not wrong.

Are there some that are gender driven?

The words of Martin Buber.

A key to resolving conflict is empathy. And some say leveling. What do you think about leveling?

Yet, conflict is unavoidable.

And, the water of conflict is deep. So, wade in and know thyself.Frederick Nietzsche—”One man goes to his neighbor’s house to lose himself,

another to find himself. It is your own bad self love that makes your house a prison”