Conflict Resolution Models

Conflict Resolution
St. Paul University
Name: Laura Di Dio
Course: ECS 2104
Date: 2012.10.01
Conflict Resolution Models
Conflict resolution mediation is a vital part of social interaction. In daily interactions, people are bound to step on each other’s toes and have disagreements. However, the crucial part is resolving conflicts as they arise. This is a fundamental social concept that helps in daily interactions. Researchers over the years have categorized conflict into different areas in an effort to understand the underlying concept behind conflict resolution (Furlong, 2005). Researchers have also broken down the various methods of conflict resolution in an effort to find out the root causes of conflicts, and the best ways of solving them. It is essential to note that conflict resolution is an extremely wide area of study that cannot be comprehensively covered, as there is new data and information every time coupled by new conflicts.
Using Gary Furlong’s models for conflict resolution, I will analyze a conflict case that happened in my life. The conflict arose when I embarked on redesigning section of my house, and employed the services of an interior designer, and a contractor who came with his crew to do the work. The conflict arose after I realized the construction crew was note following the design plans I had agreed upon with the internal designer. This resulted in a conflict that was later solved after open discussion with the parties involved.
According to Gary Furlong’s book on conflict resolution, he categorizes conflict resolution strategies into eight models. The first model is the circle of conflict that was originally developed by Christopher Moore. This model is used to categories the causes of conflicts into its causes and drivers into five categories (Furlong, 2005). They include relationship, data, values, structure and moods. The eighth model on conflict resolution is the Moving beyond Conflict Model. Gray compared this model to the process of grieving where he advocates for steps conflicting parties should follow to get over conflicts and move forward. Gay’s work on the eighth model is based on Elisabeth Kulber-Ross’ book “On Death and Dying” (Furlong, 2005).
From Gary’s work, analysis of the conflict situation that occurred during the redesigning of my house has brought into light the various aspects on conflict resolution. First, I would use two models to analyze the conflict situation using the first model. The first model, the Circle of Conflict establishes all the players in the conflict. In establishing the involved players, measures can be put to help in the process of conflict resolution. Using this method, the conflict can be limited to the areas affected and is not compounded. However, by using ...