University of Wisconsin - Stout

  1. Personal Power Base
    1. Those in conflicts must have an understanding that they:
      1. Are people of worth
      2. Have strengths
      3. Are capable of accomplishing goals
    2. Conflict must be looked at as a vehicle for personal growth.
  2. Mutual Trust and Acceptance: Practice the Art of Dialogue
    1. Without trust, you cannot accept, and if you cannot accept, you cannot listen.
  3. The Conflict Core
    1. The central issue of the conflict is the core
    2. If you move from the perspective of the core, your chances of managing the conflict are increased.
  4. Analyze Assumptions and Values
    1. Look at underlying assumptions.
      1. What does the other party assume about the conflict?
      2.   What do you assume about the conflict?
    2. Solutions will probably focus on the assumptions that they hold in common
    3. Value analysis of each party is also helpful
  5. Owning Your Feelings and Perceptions
    1. Individuals must deal with their own feelings and perceptions to manage conflict effectively. 
    2. Individuals mist be willing to risk as honestly and openly as they can.
  6. Brainstorming Creative Alternatives
    1. Brainstorm as many different ways to manage the conflict as possible
    2. Don’t discuss alternatives until you have suggested as many alternatives as possible
    3. After brainstorming, select 2 or 3 alternatives that your group thinks they can use
    4. Select one alternative to try first
      1. The alternative that uses both of the parties’ personal strengths will likely be acted upon.
      2.   Project the risks and results involved with the solution.
  7. Commitment
    1. Once you’have chosen a method and examined it in some detail, you must commit to the resolution. 
  8. Evaluation
    1. Did the alternative chosen manage the conflict?