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
Context
You
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
Context
You
Topic
Styles of Canceling Conflict
Placating cancels the . . . ?
Me
Context
You
Topic
Styles of Canceling Conflict
Pouncing cancels the . . .?
Me
Context
You
Topic
Styles of Canceling Conflict
Computing cancels the . . . ?
Me
Context
You
Topic
Styles of Canceling Conflict
Distracting cancels the . . . ?
Me
Context
You
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”