Five Types of Conflict

1911 Words8 Pages
Abstract This paper will reflect and summarize the definition of conflict based on the following five types: Relationship, Data, Interest, Structural, and Value. Included in the summary will be the author’s perspective of the words utilized to create a “word cloud” and the picture developed from those words based on conflict. “Simons wrote over 30 years ago that at one end, conflict is seen as a disruption of the normal workings of a system; at the other, conflict is seen as a part of all relationships” (Abigail R.A. & Cahn D.D., 2011, pp. 6). Simons was very astute and summed the five types of conflict up illustrating that they are all part of a system emphasizing relationships. Relationships are key to conflict management and are the driving force behind conflict in all situations. Conflict Coser states that conflict is, “A struggle over values and claims to scarce status, power, and resources in which the aims of the opponents are to neutralize, injure, or eliminate the rivals” (Coser, L. A. 1967). Deutsch believes that, “Conflict exists whenever incompatible activities occur . . . an action which prevents, obstructs, interferes with, injures, or in some way makes (resolution) less likely or less effective” (Deutsch, M. 1949). Wilmot & Hocker define conflict as, “an expressed struggle between at least two interdependent parties who perceive incompatible goals, scarce resources, and interference from others in achieving their goals” (Wilmot, W.W. & Hocker, and J.L. 2011). This author identifies with Wilmot & Hocker’s definition of conflict because it is more representative of what the author has experienced through their personal life and career. Types of Conflict Data Conflict Data conflict is directly related to communication. It is how data is collected; interpreted and even communicated
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