Hello
readers! Today I am going to blog about an interpersonal conflict. Conflict
arises whether we like it or not, the key lies in your attitude and how you
manage it. When handled properly, conflict can be positive. It leads to a
deeper understanding and mutual respect. When handled poorly, it can cause
resentment and hostility. Let me tell you a story about 2 brothers involved in
a conflict.
Ted
and Ben were given a pair of movie vouchers by their mother for good behaviour.
However, when they arrived at the cinema. They were told that the voucher can
only be used in the same movie. This causes a problem as they both planned to
watch a different movie. This resulted in conflict as the brothers have to
watch a movie together and one of them won't get to watch the movie he wants.
Ted
decided to assert his position as the elder brother to force Ben into watching
the movie he preferred. Ben felt resentful as Ted forced a solution on him
without any discussion. Ted is unwilling to cooperate as he has been longing to
watch the movie since the trailer first came out online. This led to a
negotiation deadlock as both parties assertive and uncooperative as their
concerns are compromised.
Realising
that things aren't getting anywhere, he decides to compromise and collaborate
with Ben to think about an alternative solution. Seeing that Ted is willing to
lower his needs, Ben decided to comply and together, they proceed to seek
innovative solutions to satisfy their needs.
After
spending close to half an hour weighing the pros and cons, they decided to
watch the movie that Ben wanted. As it is an action flick, both of them
realised they will benefit more from watching this movie in the cinema.
They won't be able to replicate the intensity of the crashing buildings and
explosions out of the cinema. Since Ted wanted to watch an animated movie that
does not have any explosive scenes, they will then wait for the blue-ray
release of the movie. Furthermore, they might not have to fork out extra money
if both of them can convince their parents to purchase it. After the decision
has been made, Ben realised he got the better deal and made the move to
pay for the drinks and popcorn.
So,
I have come to the end of the 2 brothers story. What do you think of the
solution used? Do you feel that collaboration is the correct solution to this
problem? Feel free to use the model of conflict-handling behaviour as
a guide to input your own solution in the comments section if you
have got a better one! I will read through them and discuss it with you when I
have the time.
Hi Wei Quan,
ReplyDeleteI think the solution used was excellent as both have them have come down to an agreement which benefited both parties. However, not only did they collaborate to worked out a solution, but also accommodating with each other needs to find that alternative solution. Even though had a rough start at least they manage to handle the situation well. Conflict are inevitable but to solve it without hurting one another shows how managing conflicts is an important aspect of life.
Hi Wei Quan,
ReplyDeleteIt is great that both of them able to practice effective interpersonal communication and come to a conclusion where they can compromise on each other points of view.
I felt that this conflict can be further minimised if they can practice a calm approach. Because when they put themselves in each other point of view and not be aggressive at first, they would be able to achieve “win-win” situation faster.
ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ
teckcheng