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Communication and Conflict

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Communication and Conflict
Conflict is an inevitable part of life arising from differences between involved parties. More often than not conflict results from miscommunication with regard to the needs, ideas, beliefs, goals, or values of each of the parties involved. However, effective communication skills are essential to a positive outcome to any conflict situation. This paper will discuss the role of communication in constructive and destructive conflict.
Constructive communication should address behaviors and emotions of all parties, it should be established that an important aspect of the successful outcome of the conflict is that all parties agree to disagree cordially. “Explore different assumptions. Listen with respect, without attacking the other’s point of view.” (Wilmot & Hocker, 2007 pg. 232) Dialogue is an effective process that should be used as a mechanism to inform the other party on ideas and possibly offer different perceptions of an issue; it is a conversation that seeks for understanding, agreement, and a solution that works for all parties involved. The concept of effective dialogue is for all involved parties to listen to each other without any preconceived ideas or without trying to influence the other party. “Dialogue differs from usual conversation because although you may dislike what the other person advocates, you still listen and work to value the person.” (Wilmot & Hocker, 2007, p. 232). Dialogue should be used as a mechanism to inform the other party of ideas and possibly offer different perceptions of an issue; it is a conversation that seeks understanding, agreement, and a solution that work for all parties involved. The concept of effective dialogue is for all involved parties to listen to each other without any preconceived ideas or without trying to influence the other party. Dialogue is a process for sharing and learning about another group's beliefs, feelings, interests, and/or needs in a non-adversarial, open way. I effectively used

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