conflict-resolutionlisted

# Conflict Resolution Conflict is an expressed struggle between interdependent parties who perceive incompatible goals, scarce resources, or interference from the other party. It is not inherently destructive -- unresolved conflict is destructive. Well-managed conflict surfaces problems, generates creative solutions, strengthens relationships, and drives organizational learning. This skill covers the frameworks, techniques, and practices that transform conflict from a destructive force into a productive one. **Agent affinity:** freire (dialogical conflict resolution and power-aware mediation), tannen (understanding how conversational style differences create and escalate conflict) **Concept IDs:** comm-respectful-disagreement, comm-consensus-building, comm-facilitated-discussion, comm-intercultural-communication ## Conflict Styles (Thomas-Kilmann, 1974) The Thomas-Kilmann model maps conflict behavior along two dimensions: assertiveness (concern for your own interests) and cooperativeness (concern for the other party's interests). | Style | Assertiveness | Cooperativeness | Best when | Worst when | |---|---|---|---|---| | **Competing** | High | Low | Emergencies, protecting rights, when you know you're right and speed matters | Relationships matter, the other party has valid concerns | | **Accommodating** | Low | High | The issue matters more to them, preserving the relationship is paramount | Your core interests are at stake, sets a pattern of giving in | | **Avoiding**