Sources of Conflict

Sources of Conflict — Communication, Structural, Personal

Conflict Definition

Conflict is defined as extended struggle or disagreement.

Conflict Leads To

This can lead to frustration of an important concern, whether real or perceived.

Multiple Factors

Many factors may result in or increase the probability of conflict within an organization.

Combination Effects

These factors manifest themselves in combination with other factors, making it potentially difficult to identify the specific source of the conflict.

Communication Factors

Communication = Common Blame

Communication often gets the blame for problems that occur in the workplace; however, the real crux of the problem is more likely to be MISCOMMUNICATION.

Miscommunication Examples

For example, communication or even over-communication may occur within an organization, and when the communication is:

Misinterpreted
Inaccurate
Incomplete

…it can lead to frustration and stress.

What Personnel Need

Information Standards

For personnel to perform at their very best, they need:

Constructive information
Understandable information
Accurate information

Structural Factors

Larger Org = More Conflict

The larger the organization, the more people there will be to potentially cause and participate in conflict.

Resources

Resource Conflict

Resources, whether scarce or under high demand, may generate conflict as parties posture to compete for the resources.

Interaction Reveals Differences

The more people interact, the more noticeable their differences become.

Line-Staff Distinctions

When dealing with line-staff distinctions, this can lead to disputes, partly because although people may attempt to participate, it does not necessarily mean their contributions are heard, valued, or accepted.

Leader Encouragement

Leaders should encourage employees to:

Challenge the status quo
Seek better ways of doing business
Continually improve processes

Reward Programs

Reward Programs Healthy

Rewards programs can potentially encourage and develop a healthy competition as long as the rewards aren't perceived as unfair, unjust, or biased in some way.

Personal Behavior Factors

Personal Behavior Sources

Conflict can arise because of individual differences, such as:

Goals and objectives
Perceptions
Values
Personalities

Aligning with USAF Mission

Align with USAF

If we align our personal needs and values with the overall USAF mission, we will be more aptly willing to:

Change
Set aside self-interests
Listen to the ideas of others
Reduce conflict

Realistic Perspective

Addressing issues through a realistic or even positive perspective rather than being based on emotion will lead to:

Fewer arguments
More professionally driven performance

Personality Conflicts

Personality Conflicts Always Exist

Personality conflicts and differences among employees will always exist, but the way we respond to them does not have to be unprofessional or disruptive to the organization.