CPN Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In a multiparty dispute, which technique helps prevent coalition formation against a single party?
- Caucusing with each party separately (Correct answer)
- Issuing ultimatums early
- Reducing the number of agenda items
- Assigning a single spokesperson for all parties
Correct answer: Caucusing with each party separately
Caucusing allows the mediator to address grievances privately, reducing the incentive for parties to form opposing coalitions.
Question 2: Which conflict style is most appropriate when the issue is trivial and preserving the relationship is the priority?
- Competing
- Avoiding (Correct answer)
- Collaborating
- Compromising
Correct answer: Avoiding
Avoiding is appropriate for low-stakes issues where maintaining the relationship outweighs the cost of leaving the issue unresolved.
Question 3: What is 'reframing' in conflict resolution?
- Repeating the other party's statement louder
- Restating an issue in neutral or positive terms to shift perspective (Correct answer)
- Introducing new facts to change the negotiation
- Changing the meeting location to reduce tension
Correct answer: Restating an issue in neutral or positive terms to shift perspective
Reframing transforms inflammatory or positional language into neutral terms, opening space for collaborative problem solving.
Question 4: A negotiator uses 'logrolling' to resolve a multi-issue conflict. What does this involve?
- Delaying resolution until both parties cool down
- Trading concessions across issues of differing value to each party (Correct answer)
- Splitting the difference on every disputed item equally
- Bringing in a neutral third party to decide each issue
Correct answer: Trading concessions across issues of differing value to each party
Logrolling exploits differences in issue priority so each party concedes on items they value less in exchange for gains on items they value more.
Question 5: Which problem-solving model follows the sequence: Define → Generate → Evaluate → Implement → Review?
- The Harvard Negotiation Framework
- The Structured Problem-Solving Process (Correct answer)
- The BATNA Analysis Model
- The Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode framework
Correct answer: The Structured Problem-Solving Process
The Structured Problem-Solving Process uses a five-step sequence to move systematically from diagnosis to solution evaluation and follow-up.
Question 6: When emotions run high in a negotiation, what is the most effective immediate technique?
- Presenting more data to distract the parties
- Calling a short recess or break (Correct answer)
- Increasing positional pressure to force a decision
- Threatening to withdraw from negotiations
Correct answer: Calling a short recess or break
A short break allows emotional intensity to decrease, enabling parties to return to rational problem solving.
Question 7: What distinguishes 'positions' from 'interests' in conflict resolution?
- Positions are flexible; interests are fixed
- Positions are what parties demand; interests are the underlying needs driving those demands (Correct answer)
- Interests are stated publicly; positions are kept private
- Positions address emotions; interests address facts
Correct answer: Positions are what parties demand; interests are the underlying needs driving those demands
Positions are stated demands, while interests are the deeper motivations or needs that explain why parties hold those positions.
CPN Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving 2
In a multiparty dispute, which technique helps prevent coalition formation against a single party?