Exam 8: A: Managing Conflict in Relationships

Describe a recent conflict you had with a roommate, friend, or romantic partner that did not end in a satisfying resolution of the problem. Analyze and describe the way you and your partner managed the conflict. How could you rewrite the conflict using more effective and appropriate conflict management strategies to produce a more satisfying result?

Why is conflict described as inevitable and unavoidable in relationships?

Define communication climate. What factors determine the type of communication climate we will have in a relationship? How can we move from an uncertain or defensive climate to one that is supportive?

Briefly explain the influences that affect the way conflict is managed in a relationship.

List and describe the common triggers that lead to conflict, and provide a brief example to illustrate each trigger.

Compare and contrast the different conflict management styles. Which styles are most effective and which are least effective? Why?

How does culture influence the ways in which people approach conflict management? Using a brief narrative example, illustrate how your culture has shaped the way conflict is managed within your family.

List and describe the two communication strategies that foster reconciliation after a conflict. Which one do you believe is more important and which is less important, and why? In your opinion, which one is easier and which one is harder to do, and why?

Synthesizing what you have learned in this chapter and others in this text, discuss the role of ethics in conflict management. Describe verbal/nonverbal behaviors, listening behaviors, and other communication behaviors you would label as unethical and explain why these behaviors are unethical and not merely ineffective. Answer Key

Consider the following scenario: Stephanie and Derek have been dating for a couple of years. Stephanie wants to marry Derek, but he is unsure. Derek's parents were divorced when he was young, and both his mother and father have remarried and divorced again. Derek says he loves Stephanie but that he doesn't "believe in marriage." Stephanie isn't sure if she is willing to commit to a relationship with Derek if he isn't willing to consider marriage. Briefly contrast the ways this conflict might end if the couple uses each of the following conflict management styles: avoiding, obliging, direct fighting, indirect fighting, compromising, and collaborating