Conflict Management & Resolution Flashcards

Which conflict resolution approach is least appropriate when one party has significantly more power than the other?

Answer: Direct unstructured negotiation without safeguards

Power imbalances in unstructured direct negotiation can result in coercion or unfair outcomes for the weaker party.

A CFE who consistently uses avoidance as a conflict management strategy risks:

Answer: Allowing unresolved issues to escalate into larger problems

Persistent avoidance allows conflicts to grow unchecked, often leading to more serious disputes or investigation failures.

The concept of 'separating the people from the problem' in principled negotiation means:

Answer: Focusing on issues rather than attacking or blaming individuals

Principled negotiation requires addressing the substance of the dispute without making it personal or adversarial.

When a CFE faces ethical pressure from a client to minimize findings that would reflect poorly on the client, the appropriate response is to:

Answer: Report complete, accurate findings regardless of client pressure

The CFE Code of Professional Ethics requires complete and truthful reporting regardless of client preferences or pressures.

Which type of conflict is most likely to improve group performance when kept at moderate levels?

Answer: Cognitive (task) conflict

Moderate cognitive conflict around task-related issues can stimulate critical thinking and improve decision quality.

A CFE assigned to an investigation is asked to intervene in a conflict between two attorneys disputing evidentiary procedures. The CFE should:

Answer: Stay within the scope of forensic expertise and avoid rendering legal judgments

CFEs should contribute their forensic expertise without overstepping into legal determinations that are outside their scope.

Which factor most significantly undermines trust during conflict resolution processes in forensic investigations?

Answer: Inconsistent statements or perceived dishonesty by any party

Inconsistency and perceived dishonesty are the fastest ways to destroy trust in any dispute resolution process.