Reacting to Conflict

Based on Pugh D S, Hickson D J & Hinings C R (1971)
Writers on Organizations;
Penguin ISBN 014022629X

Fred and Charlie disagree.

The disagreement can be viewed as a problem in need of solution.

Three main attitudes to this problem solving situation can be identified, and each has three variations .

A   Fight

1. engage in a win/lose power struggle

2. refer to a third party for judgement

3. allow a stalemate and thus "fate arbitration"

B  Avoid

4. one party gives up and withdraws

5. the parties isolate themselves from each other

6. everyone puts on a show of indifference

C  Resolve

7. preserve harmony by stressing common interests

8. compromise, or use bargaining for mutual accomodation

9. find a positive resolution to the point(s) of difference

Note: (7) and (8) "blur" the problem, only (9) actually "solves" it.