Conflict occurs whenever :– Disagreements exist in a social situation over issues of substance.– Emotional antagonisms cause frictions between individuals or groups.Types of conflict.–
Substantive conflict.• A fundamental disagreement over ends or goals to be pursued and the means for their accomplishment.
– Emotional conflict.• Interpersonal difficulties that arise over feelings of anger, mistrust, dislike, fear, resentment, etc.
– Interpersonal conflict.• Occurs between two or more individuals who are in opposition to one another.
– Intergroup conflict.• Occurs among members of different teams or groups.Interorganizational conflict.• Occurs in the competition and rivalry that characterize firms operating in the same markets.• Occurs between unions and organizations employing their members.• Occurs between government regulatory agencies and organizations subject to their surveillance.• Occurs between organizations and suppliers of raw materials.
Functional (or constructive) conflict.– Results in positive benefits to individuals, the group, or the organization.– Likely effects.• Surfaces important problems so they can be addressed.• Causes careful consideration of decisions.• Causes reconsideration of decisions.• Increases information available for decision making.• Provides opportunities for creativity.
Dysfunctional (or destructive) conflict.– Works to the disadvantage of individuals, the group, or the organization.– Likely effects :• Diverts energies.• Harms group cohesion.• Promotes interpersonal hostilities.• Creates overall negative environment for workers.
Indirect conflict management approaches.– Reduced interdependence.– Appeals to common goals.– Hierarchical referral.– Alterations in the use of mythology and scripts