Conflict Resolution Techniques Flashcards

A peer takes credit for your idea in a meeting. The most effective conflict resolution response in the moment is to:

Answer: Stay silent and address it after the meeting privately

Addressing it privately preserves the relationship and avoids public embarrassment while still holding the person accountable.

Which conflict resolution approach is most appropriate when the issue is urgent and non-negotiable, such as a safety violation?

Answer: Competing (directing)

When stakes are high and time is short, a directive approach ensures immediate compliance over consensus-building.

The 'DESC' script in assertive conflict communication stands for:

Answer: Describe, Express, Specify, Consequences

DESC is an assertiveness framework: Describe the behavior, Express your feelings, Specify what you want, state the Consequences.

Cultural differences in conflict resolution most commonly affect:

Answer: How directly or indirectly people express disagreement

High-context cultures favor indirect, relationship-preserving communication while low-context cultures favor direct expression of disagreement.

When both parties in a conflict have equal power and the relationship matters long-term, which style is most effective?

Answer: Collaborating

Collaborating is ideal when the relationship and outcome both matter, as it seeks a solution that fully satisfies both parties.

A mediator's primary role in conflict resolution is to:

Answer: Facilitate communication and help parties reach their own agreement

Mediators are neutral facilitators — they guide the process but do not impose solutions.

Which phrase best exemplifies a 'soft startup' when raising a conflict issue?

Answer: 'I've noticed that when X happens, I feel Y, and I'd like to talk about it.'

A soft startup uses 'I' statements, describes behavior objectively, and expresses feelings without blame or contempt.