Example research essay topic: Point Of View Conflict Situations - 1,297 words

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Introduction: Managing conflict is a skill that is necessary to deal with day to day life. There will always be situations where we disagree with other peoples, or groups, views, opinions, ideals, etc. It is how we express our disagreement that is essential in creating a suitable atmosphere for friendship, workplace relations and other forms of interaction between people. If conflict arises, it can be dealt with in a positive way, and as such the conflict becomes constructive. Or the conflict can be dealt with in a negative way and as such the conflict becomes destructive. Being able to recognise the difference between constructive and destructive conflict, will go along way in ensuring that our opinions are always heard and that we remain open to others opinions.

What is Conflict? Conflict is caused by a clash of values opinions or needs, conflict can be positive or it can be negative. + Conflict occurs when different parties with differing aims or goals interfere with attempts to satisfy those goals or aims. + Conflict arises when needs arent met such as physical needs, financial, social, educational, intellectual, recreational, or spiritual, tangible, or intangible. + Conflict can be seen to move through various levels before it reaches boiling point this is the final level, the crisis level. Stages Of Conflict: + Discomfort is the first stage of conflict. This is where one gets the feeling that something isnt quite right. + An incident is the second level and this involves something coming between the parties concerned. + Misunderstandings are next and can occur between individuals or groups and can interfere with the relationship. + When tension artists the situation is very near crisis point, this is where relationships are blinded by opinions and negative attitudes. + Crisis leads the parties concerned into thinking about drastic measures, such as quitting etc. Mapping Conflict: + By mapping conflict we are able to see our own perception of conflict as well as others. + Mapping involves identifying the parties concerned, and listing to the major needs and wants of each party. + Mapping enables suitable solutions to be seen more easily There are 4 stages in mapping conflict: I. Agreeing on the issue, often the issue isnt as clear as it seems.

Both parties must agree on the issue. II. Who is involved? List all parties involved whose wants needs or concerns are / arent being addressed.

III. List all needs and concerns of all parties. This allows different solutions to begin being seen. IV. Read the map.

Patterns, likenesses and similarities will begin to form. Once the mapping is complete it becomes easier for each party to see sets of solutions, hopefully the most suitable solution will be found. In cases where solutions arent as obvious there are steps that can be taken to create options for all parties. This can mean brainstorming to choose the options, divide the problem into smaller pieces, or use a trial and error approach. Before acting upon the found solution it is important to link similar solutions together. Order them into how they are to be implemented.

There needs to be an action plan created, so that each step can be seen by all of the parties, and is a working document for the action of the chosen options. Responses to Conflict: Responding to conflict is something that we continue to learn everyday. Watching the interactions between people, the way disagreements are handled, etc. By seeing this we begin to act in t he same way; deal with arguments in the same way. This may not always be the best way, by learning ways of handling conflict we will be able to deal with conflict in a more appropriate manner when it arises. Assertive Behaviour: As shown in the table assertive behaviour is the best type of behaviour in conflict situations.

People who use this type of behaviour are able to communicate their own opinions and feelings more effectively, whilst acknowledging the rights of others. This type of behaviour makes us better communicators, and as a result we are more likely to be understood. Being assertive increases our self-esteem and gives us confidence in dealing with sensitive situations. It can lead to a mutual respect from all parties concerned as you are prepared to listen and acknowledge what they have to say.

The non-assertive behaviours can be just as bad as each other depending on the circumstance: + Aggressive behaviour is trying to win at all costs regardless of what the other people want. This type of action shows little respect for others, as they try and humiliate and dominate to get their point across. This is a very ineffective method of resolving conflict as it merely widens the differences between people and thus increases the conflict. + Submissive behaviour can be just as bad, as they are unable to promote a point of view. Their own needs, wants and desires are ignored and they lack self-respect. Not only is the submissive response detrimental to ones self respect, it can actually increase the conflict which was trying to be avoided. In order to be assertive you need to use certain statements to make others aware of your rights while you remain aware of theirs.

For example using the by using the three part I message we are able to be honest in our relationship with others. 1. This is what I think, plus 2. This is what I feel, plus 3. This is how I see the situation. Sending out a message such as this conveys a clear statement on what you think, feel and leads to a mutual understanding of what is happening from your point of view. In a conflict point of view this three-part message states action, response and preferred outcome.

Three-part message = action + response + preferred outcome. These are all necessary ingredients in successful conflict resolution. Assertive behaviour entails a range of traits that need to be used properly in order to get your message across in an assertive way instead of a submissive or aggressive way. Two of these are the nonverbal messages and listening. + Non verbal messages: In conflict situations one needs to be sure that there nonverbal message matches that of their verbal message.

For example its no good trying to say you understand whilst shaking your head. The nonverbal message that you are sending is contradictory to your verbal message. A more appropriate response would be to say, I understand whilst nodding your head. Interpretation of nonverbal messages is also an important tool in conflict resolution, it allows you to gauge the feedback that you are being given and weather it is positive or negative. + Listening: Not only is listening essential to conflict resolution it is also essential in good communication. Not everybody has good listening skills, however these can be learnt and developed. Just hearing what a person is saying isnt enough; one needs to be listening properly.

To do this empathy is needed. Listening with empathy allows you to put yourself in the other persons position and to say what theyre feeling. Empathy can be checked to see that you have understood what they are trying to say. Conclusion: In order to combat conflict we first need to identify what the conflict is the cause of the conflict, and plan possible solutions for resolution.

Use of the mapping technique, which allows needs and concerns of all parties to be addressed, can create these plans for resolution. Assertive behaviour is crucial in getting the conflict resolved, it entails letting others know what you want and how you feel whilst acknowledging the same of the other person. This requires listening with empathy and making sure your nonverbal message match's that of your verbal message.

Research essay sample on Point Of View Conflict Situations