Conflict resolution styles, such as avoidance, competition, accommodation, compromise, and collaboration are used to address conflict situations. In the following scenarios, suggest the appropriate conflict resolution style(s). Explain the choice and the anticipated outcome.

 

Laura has planned to take a day off this week. Her supervisor Tara noticed that work demands will be high on the day of her request. She wants Laura to reschedule her day off with the promise to allow her flex time and leave as soon as the job is accomplished.

 

Two talented but aggressive teammates want to show off their skills during a project meeting. One wants to take credit for the work he has done and the other tries to advance his ideas front and center. The team leader wants these two to work together well.

 

A company picnic is being planned. Two subgroups are tasked to come up with a fun and enjoyable program for the employees and their families. One group has its own set of group activities while the other group leans more toward individual participation. At a recent communication meeting, the two groups have expressed their desire to work together.

 

Responding to the rumor mill, Mary confronted Alyssa at a coffee break for spreading lies about her love life. Mary was relentless and fuming mad about the situation. Entering the cafeteria, coworker Latisha witnessed the entire argument.

 

Mario who works as a front-line employee in a packing company is one of the most reliable in the group. One day, he received a phone call from his wife informing him that the babysitter for their two sons fell sick. He would have to come home because the wife must leave for work within the next hour. The line is short-staffed and supervisor Mark wants Mario to complete his duties. 

Conflict resolution styles

Step-by-step explanation

The conflict resolution style that is most appropriate for Laura and her supervisor is accommodating. Laura sacrifices her day-off to handle the work that her supervisor expects to be on high demand on her off. Although Laura will be disappointed, she will be less cooperative because she has been assured another day for her to be off work. The outcome of the resolution style in harmony and satisfaction of the involved parties.

The two teammates competing to take credit for the presentation can resolve their conflict using compromising style. Their leader should guide them in creating a mutually acceptable situation, and each is satisfied without feeling the other took all the credit. Compromising means each will lose and gain equality in the disputed situation. At the end of the presentation, both teammates will be equally happy about it.

The two groups tasked with coming up with activities for the picnic can resolve their conflict through collaboration. They have expressed a desire to work together, which is a good sign of a successful collaboration. They should be encouraged to work together because the other group will accommodate the group whose members were oriented to individual participation. The result of a collaborative style is common goal achievement.

The conflict between Mary and Alyssa can be resolved using avoidance style because Latisha cannot help in the situation. Mary is furious and will not resolve the conflict amidst her anger. The resolution can be postponed until when both Alyssa and Mary can peacefully talk. Using avoidance style reduces the chance of aggravating the situation, such as resulting in a fight.

The situation of Mario presents a big dilemma. He and his wife are in the same situation as work. He is required to clear his work in the understaffed line while his wife wants to leave for work. Mario and his wife have to use a compromising style of conflict resolution because they have very little time to make decisions. For both to have some satisfaction, his wife should call to her supervisor that she has an emergency and will not report to work in the morning but will report later than usual. Mario will clear his line and go to assist after seeking permission from his supervisor. Both will have attended to their duties and have taken care of their sons.