pisodes of conflict in work groups are inevitable. Conflicts occur when there is disagreement between group members about which course of action to take, an interpersonal issue or difference of ideas. When a conflict arises, many times there is a good reason for it. Unclear plans, ambiguous roles and different perspectives on the best method to reach the group goal need to be addressed. An open discussion where all group members can express their viewpoints and ask questions is the starting point. Dealing with conflict allows the group to explore their differences, learn from each other, clarify misunderstanding and come to a consensus. Group members and leaders should be mindful of what type of conflict they are dealing with and if the conflict is constructive or destructive. Conflict can be a destructive force halting a group’s progress or a constructive power fueling group debate and problem solving.
Damaging group member relationships and effectiveness, destructive conflicts arise when group members engage in
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Focusing on cooperation and finding a better way, constructive conflict often results in improved group strategies by utilizing the best parts of several proposed ideas. One group member may offer a solution and another member builds on it or points out a flaw that still needs to be figured out. As a team, the group utilizes their combined knowledge and experience to innovate a superior solution or improved strategy to reach their goal. Engaging in constructive conflict requires a certain level of cohesion but once that has been achieved the process brings about even greater cohesion and trust amongst group members. Drawing out the strengths of group members and spurring them to present their best concepts, constructive conflict increases the effectiveness of a work