Why use a collaborative approach to conflict resolution?

Conflict is normal in the interactions and relationships we have at work and in our personal lives. Some of the beliefs underlying a collaborative approach to conflict resolutions are that conflict is neither good nor bad, but how we interact during conflict influences whether the outcome is desirable or undesirable. Conflict also can develop from a variety of situations and interactions, and specific disputes often symbolize deeper underlying conflict. As humans we tend to defend out own perception of a conflict situation and we can gravitate towards an adversarial dynamic, resulting in conflict that is avoided, battled or stalemated, the objective of a collaborative approach is to improve the quality of interactions and relationships since relationships are influenced by the interactions between people.

The goals of collaborative conversations is to improve or repair relationships by increasing understanding between parties, and reducing or eliminating the tension between them. It’s also to provide outcomes to issues that result in gains to both parties and provide them with a positive experience on engaging in conflict.

There are some conditions that support collaboration: recognition by both parties that a conflict exists, a desire to resolve the conflict and a willingness to try a collaborative approach. There needs to be a willingness to depersonalize the conflict and work together, without this there may be little progress.

There are also internal aspects of the collaborative approach that require the people involved to explore and question their belief’s, attitudes, values, perceptions and feelings about the conflict – which isn’t always easy. However, it the people involved are able to do this, it can help change behaviours and lead to increased awareness, new experiences and better outcomes.

 

 

Reference:

Centre for Conflict Resolution. (2021). Foundations of Collaborative Conflict Resolution: CRES-1100. Justice Institute for British Columbia, Centre for Conflict Resolution.

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