Conflict Resolution Strategies and Techniques Flashcards

Which type of conflict resolution process is typically the most informal and least structured?

Answer: Peer negotiation

Peer negotiation between the disputing parties themselves is the most informal, direct, and unstructured form of conflict resolution.

When a manager uses a competing conflict style in a genuine safety emergency, this is considered:

Answer: Appropriate because the stakes justify unilateral action

The competing style is appropriate when quick, decisive action is needed to protect safety or enforce non-negotiable rules.

What is the purpose of an 'interests map' in conflict resolution?

Answer: To identify and categorize each party's underlying needs and concerns

An interests map organizes each party's underlying needs, concerns, and priorities to reveal potential areas of agreement and trade-offs.

The concept of 'ripeness' in conflict resolution refers to:

Answer: The moment when parties are sufficiently motivated to negotiate a solution

Ripeness describes the point at which parties perceive the cost of continued conflict as greater than the cost of negotiating a resolution.

In a workplace mediation, confidentiality protections primarily serve to:

Answer: Encourage parties to speak openly without fear of consequences

Confidentiality enables parties to share concerns and interests freely, which is essential for effective problem-solving in mediation.

Which approach is most effective when parties are locked in positional bargaining?

Answer: Ask 'why' questions to uncover interests behind positions

Asking 'why' questions moves parties from their stated positions to their underlying interests, opening space for creative solutions.

A conflict resolution technique where a neutral party meets separately with each side is known as:

Answer: Caucusing

Caucusing involves the mediator holding private, separate meetings with each party to explore sensitive issues or break impasses.