FCHD 2400 C.

Beckert, PhD

Resolving Conflict in Families

1. Operational Definition:
2. “When the needs, wants, wishes, and desires of one partner are in opposition to the needs,
wants, wishes, and desires of the other.”

Steps in Conflict Resolution

3. Recognize the conflict

4. Accept the conflict
5. Understand the conflict
6. Work through (resolve) the conflict
7. Methods for Resolving Conflict:

From least effective to most effective

8. Physically fight it out

9. Verbal arguments
10. Calling reinforcements and allies to assist you
11. Withdrawal and silence, avoidance of person and/or issue, refuse to engage
12. Deny the existence of the conflict
13. Give in to the other but without support
14. Give in to the other but with support
15. Compromise by taking turns
16. Agree to disagree and live with the conflict
17. Cooperate, negotiate to create a win-win situation

Actions which could be taken

18. Coexist (accommodate)

19. Capitulate (acquiesce)
20. Compromise (negotiate)
21. Collaborate (win-win)

Levels of Support

22. I agree and will help.

23. I agree but can’t (won’t) help.
24. I disagree but won’t block.
25. I disagree and will try to block.