Managing Conflict - Introduction

Survival Skills for Coastal Resource Managers

Managing Conflict in a Collaborative Process


Conflict is a natural and necessary part of social interaction, and plays an important role in the collaborative process. When managed productively, conflict can clarify differences, increase creativity, and help build strong bonds within the group. Alternatively, if not acknowledged or managed effectively, conflict can detract from the group's productivity and damage its cohesiveness.

	Possible positive outcomes of conflict Produce better ideas or new approaches Resolve long-standing problems Clarify views Enhance creativity and interest	Possible negative outcomes of conflict Group members feel defeated or insulted Distance between individuals or groups increase Potential for distrust or suspicion Promotion of "self-interests" Resistance develops, rather than teamwork and cooperation