Conflict Styles
The IDEA
Conflict is a natural part of life, especially when working with diverse individuals with varying beliefs and ideas. Though it makes most people uncomfortable, conflict, when dealt with productively, can lead to personal growth and relationship building.
People have different tendencies when dealing with conflict. This model helps us identify our primary responses to conflict and challenges us to adapt to different styles based on what's important to us.
Natural Strengths & Challenges
No style is better than another. However certain tasks tend to be easier for some than others. What tasks do you thrive with? Have you struggled with these?
Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode
The model is based on two base spectrums;
Assertiveness: Degree to which we support our own point.
Cooperativeness: Degree to which we support another's point.
Assertiveness
Cooperativeness
Meet the Animals
See how the five regions live on the dimensions of assertiveness and cooperativeness. You'll notice a diagonal dimension too: time (or resources).
Each conflict style can be represented by an animal. We have the Shark, Turtle, Bear, Fox, and Owl.
You notice someone in your class faint. A crowd of people start hovering around them and arguing about what to do. You remember your first aid training! The first step should be to lie them on their back and check for breathing.
Expand the Concept
What are your thoughts? Here are some prompts for further discussion!
Interested in more?
