Conflict in the Workplace - 3573 Words

1. Abstract Interpersonal conflicts in the workplace are very common because they inevitably arise when groups or teams perform. This essay critically discusses the view that these conflicts can in certain circumstances be a positive factor in improving the individual performance. The approach used to address this issue is a combination of literature review and interviews of employees working at the chosen business, which is the PTA GmbH. T he four levels of conflict in the workplace and the explanation of the traditional, behavioural and interactionist views of conflict are identified. C onflicts are classified using two approaches: First, they are grouped into relationship and task conflicts. Second, they are categorised by†¦show more content†¦388). Task conflict , also called C-type or substantive conflict, is a conflict over content and goals of work (Esquivel Kleiner, 1996). Task-related conflicts occur when people disagree about task issues, such as key decision areas, procedures, processes and the appropriate choice for action. This conflict is potentially healthy and valuable because it makes people rethink their perspectives and reality. As long as the conflict remains focused on the issue, new ideas may emerge and the conflict remains controlled (McShane Von Glinow, 2003, p. 386). It can force participants to address some of their assumptions and override their attempts to achieve premature unanimity, thus leading to better performance (Wood et al., 2003, p. 597). Low to moderate levels of task conflict are functional and consistently demonstrate a positive effect on the individual performance (Robbins et al., 2003, p. 423 Tjosvold et al., 2003). Successful organisations encourage mild forms of task conflict without ha ving the situation escalate into an emotional battle between employees or work units. The key is to create task conflicts and to prevent them from escalating into relationship conflicts (McShane Von Glinow, 2003, p. 386). 1.3.2. Cooperative versus competitive conflict Another way toShow MoreRelatedConflict in the Workplace1641 Words   |  7 Pagesget along on a daily basis. There’s going to be conflicts in every environment especially in the workplace. Conflict is a typical phenomenon of people’s relationship in workplace. Conflict is a fact of life. Conflict is hard to define because every situation is different in every different workplace. Conflict is a job not easily handled, and it can be really destructive if not properly taken care of. 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In this paper we will look at both the negative and positive impact of conflict in the workplace. Conflict is opposition or antagonism toward other individuals or things (Hegar, Human Relations at Work, pg 480). For example, if your co-worker was given an award for outstanding work performance but you feel that you were more deserving of the awardRead MoreConflict resolution in the workplace800 Words   |  4 PagesConflict resolution in the workplace Introduction Conflict is a fact in any relationship including the work area. Still, it is important to emphasize that some conflicts should not be seen as good or bad, they are just differences. Many times when there are disagreements between players these issues are left on the table without giving much emphasis. Unfortunately some of these conflicts have reached a level that ends in a physical altercation. When things get out of proportion, the sports psychologist