Understanding a Conflict

Understanding a Conflict

What is a conflict? A conflict is the expression of disagreement between individuals or
groups that differ in attitudes, beliefs, values or needs, through which the parties involved
perceive a threat to their needs, interests or concerns. It can also originate from past
rivalries and personality differences. Other causes of conflict include trying to negotiate
before the timing is right or at a time before the needed information is available.

From the above definition, it is obvious that a conflict has the following components:

• A conflict is more than just a disagreement. It is a situation in which people
perceive a threat (physical, emotional, power, status, etc.) to their well-being

• A conflict is caused by the differences and clash of personalities – attitudes,
beliefs, values, and needs.

• A conflict arises when people try to make others change their actions or to gain
an unfair advantage.

• A conflict arises when one party refuses to accept the fact that the other party
holds something as a value rather than a preference.

• Participants in conflicts tend to respond on the basis of their perceptions of the
situation, rather than an objective review of it.

• Creative problem-solving strategies are essential to positive approaches to
conflict management.