Effective conflict management is an essential factor that contributes to relationship functioning. In this post we will highlight what disagreement is not and provide some strategies for regulating conflict and hopeful help to enhance your relationship satisfaction.
What disagreement is not?
Disagreements are not the embodiment of a relationship/friendship. In other words, disagreements are not the sum total of a relationship and they do not necessary indicate that your relationship is dysfunctional. It is essential to understand that disagreements are a part of life and thus, they are inevitable. The issue is not the disagreements per se but the manner in which the disagreements are handled.
Respect each other
Effective conflict management strategy requires that the parties pledge to respect each other regardless of the disagreement. People who have friendships that are built on mutual respect are more likely to resolve conflict successful.
Take a time-out
Another conflict resolution approach is taking a time-out if the argument is getting too heated and voices starting to escalate. It is important to note that the person/party who calls the time-out is the person responsible for ending the time-out. The purpose of the time-out is not to avoid the conflict but to de-escalate the situation. A time-out is best when it last for a few hours within the same day that the conflict occurred.
Avoid sarcasm and name calling
Refrain from sarcastic comments or calling the other party derogatory names during a disagreement is another conflict management skill. This is important because name calling and sarcasm often put the other party on the defensive. Name calling is to a relationship as gasoline is to fire. In other words, naming calling and sarcastic comments flues the conflict.
Focus on problem and apologize
Success conflict resolution strategy requires that you focus on the immediate problem. Saying sorry when you are wrong or misunderstood is a simple but effective conflict management strategy. Even when you are not wrong, an apology is a good way to de-escalate the conflictual situation.
We belief the above strategies contribute to better conflict management in relationships.
