Conflict is not always a bad thing. Productive conflict is defined as an open exchange of conflicting or differing ideas in which parties feel equally heard, respected, and unafraid to voice dissenting opinions for the purpose of reaching a mutually comfortable resolution.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, unproductive conflict is described as an argument, especially a repetitive one, without resolution, that leaves both parties feeling more angry and frustrated.
Each is a form of conflict, but the result are very different, either leading to escalating tension and additional conflict or a resolution and a solution.
Productive conflict is actually really valuable and makes us far more productive when interacting with others. It moves teams forward, drives successful businesses in the right direction, and creates solutions to big problems. It even helps us improve our personal lives by allowing us to confront each other in a constructive way, without the need for insults and bad blood. It lets people voice their opinions without taking things personally or letting a situation escalate negatively.
Unproductive conflict, on the other hand, is quite destructive. A key characteristic of unproductive conflict is that the real issue isnt addressed. Often, one or more parties arent taking the issue seriously and using distractionary methods such as blame or denial to avoid the real problem.
Most of us are, unfortunately, quite adept at unproductive conflict (politicians especially).
Unproductive conflict tears down relationships, breeds anger and fighting, and causes division. Its the cause of so much of the pain we experience in the world.
Watch the TedTalk video below and read the online article below. Then, use the discusion prompts as a guide to make your initial post this week.
Discussion Prompts:
- Which of the conflict management styles do you tend to use most often? Why?
- What is your thoughts on the TedTalk and article about Productive Conflict?
- What are the most common sources of conflict at work?
- When should a manager step in to manage employee or team conflict?
- How does communication play into both productive and unproductive conflict?
The initial post of 300 words i
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