What are the Types and Causes of Conflict?

What is Conflict?

In human interactions, conflict arises when there is a disagreement or perceived difference in interests, needs, or goals. It is a form of competitive behavior between individuals or groups who fight over limited resources or conflicting aims, whether real or perceived. Conflict can lead to disharmony and tension in relationships.

Social conflict arises when two or more individuals or groups hold differing goals or beliefs. This is a natural occurrence resulting from varied ideas, attitudes, perceptions, and social structures. Conflict, like evolution, is an essential component of our existence. According to dictionary definitions, conflict involves disagreements, disputes, or clashes between individuals. It is often characterized as a struggle or battle between two opposing forces, with the objective of gaining control or achieving victory. Conflicts may manifest physically, such as in warfare, or mentally and emotionally, such as in disagreements among friends. It can also be an abstract struggle, such as the conflict between good and evil.

Understanding Conflict

Rewritten:

Conflict is a dynamic struggle between opposing entities, which can manifest internally or externally. It is typically viewed as detrimental, leading individuals to avoid it at all costs. Nonetheless, conflict can also be an essential catalyst for growth, new perspectives, and enhanced collaboration. It can even be a catalyst for creativity and innovative problem-solving. As such, conflict should not be avoided altogether, but rather approached in a constructive manner that benefits all parties involved.

The ongoing conflict between the state and anglophone separatists has reached a stalemate, with both parties resorting to the use of force. Nevertheless, the separatists have been more prone to violence, even targeting civilians, resulting in a dire humanitarian crisis. Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced, and countless others are at risk. The conflict escalated quickly, with both sides committing human rights violations, leading to an investigation by the International Criminal Court in 2019. The Cambridge University Press has chosen to withhold documents related to the conflict to prevent any potential instigation of violence, but this move has been criticized by human rights groups who argue that it will hinder efforts to understand and document the situation.

Types of Conflict

There are a multitude of conflict types, including ongoing, armed, bitter, and class conflicts. These various types are typically encompassed within the following categories:

1. Content conflict

A disagreement over the ideas or opinions being expressed while dealing with a certain issue.

2. Relationship conflict

A personal disagreement between two people affects their relationship.

3. Process conflict

A disagreement over the way in which something should be done.

4. Task conflict

A disagreement over the goals or objectives that need to be met while working on a project.

5. Affective conflict

A disagreement that results from a personal dislike or animosity between two people.

6. Cognitive conflict

It refers to a disagreement that occurs when people have different opinions or perspectives on an issue.

7. The conflict between individuals

A disagreement between two people. It takes place when their goals, needs, or values are different or when they have opposing opinions on an issue.

8. The conflict between groups

9. Conflict within a group

Intergroup conflict arises when two groups have differing goals, needs, or values. This can lead to disagreement and tension between the groups.

A clash of ideas or interests within a group is commonly referred to as intragroup conflict. This type of conflict arises when there is a disagreement among the members regarding their goals, opinions, or interests.

10. The conflict between organizations

A disagreement between two organizations. It happens when the goals, needs, or values of one organization are different from those of another organization.

11. The conflict between nations

A disagreement between two nations. It can be caused by different economic, political, or social interests.

Causes of Conflict

The causes of conflict are as varied as the types of conflict. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Different values, beliefs, or opinions

Conflict can occur when people have different values, beliefs, or opinions. This is often the case with religious or political issues.

2. Competition for limited resources

Conflict can occur when two or more people or groups compete for limited resources. This is often the case with economic issues.

3. Personality differences

Conflict can occur when people have different personality types. This is often the case with workplace conflicts.

4. Communication problems

Conflict can occur when communication is poor. This can happen when people don’t understand each other or when they have different ways of communicating.

5. Competition for power or control

Conflict can occur when two or more people or groups want power or control. This is often the case with political issues.

6. Different interpretations of facts

Different interpretations of the same set of facts can result in conflict, especially when people strongly believe that their own interpretation is the only correct one. Disagreements about the meaning or interpretation of something can be a significant source of tension between two groups.

7. Different values

Different values among two groups can trigger conflict, especially when they hold opposing beliefs on what is significant or morally right. Conflict arises when individuals assume that their values are the only accurate ones.

8. Different goals

Conflict can also occur when two groups have different goals. These different goals can lead to conflict if people believe that their own goals are the only correct ones.

9. Different needs

When two groups have conflicting needs, it can create tension and disputes. This is often the case when their needs differ or when they have opposing views on what is essential. If individuals feel that their own needs are the only valid ones, it can lead to unavoidable conflict.

Beliefs the Propel Groups towards Conflict

Beliefs can have a significant impact on social interactions, especially when conflicts or competition arise between different groups. This section will explore some of the important roles that beliefs can play in either instigating or preventing group conflicts.

Roy and Judy Eidelson (2003) looked at some of the critical functions that beliefs might perform in generating or preventing group-

1. Superiority

Believing that one's group is superior to others can result in conflicts arising from a sense of entitlement to more resources or better treatment. This mindset often leads to viewing others as inferior, fueling further conflict. At an individual level, this belief can manifest as racial or ethnic superiority, while at a group level, it often takes the form of nationalism.

2. Vulnerability

Believing that one's group is susceptible to harm from other groups can result in conflicts arising from the need to protect oneself. This susceptibility can create conflict when people feel endangered. At an individual level, vulnerability may manifest as a sense of personal insecurity, while at the group level, it is often expressed as paranoia about other groups.

3. Injustice

The perception of unfair treatment towards one's group can result in conflict, as individuals may feel they are not receiving what they deserve. The feeling of injustice can also arise if individuals believe they are being treated unfairly. At the individual level, this often manifests as a belief in victimization, while at the group level, it is commonly experienced as a sense of grievance.

4. Distrust

Doubting the credibility of other groups can result in conflicts. The lack of trust can cause tension and hostility. At an individual level, this can manifest as personal paranoia, whereas at a group level, it often translates to suspicion towards other groups.

5. Helplessness

Helplessness can fuel conflict when individuals or groups feel that they lack the power to improve their situation. This sense of powerlessness can manifest as a belief in personal powerlessness at an individual level, while at a group level, it may be experienced as a feeling of hopelessness.

Conflict can be a double-edged sword, as it can bring both favorable and unfavorable consequences. The extent and nature of these consequences hinge on various factors, such as the type of conflict, the individuals implicated, and the handling of the conflict. Negative outcomes of conflict may encompass

1. Stress and anxiety

Conflict can cause stress and anxiety. This can lead to physical and mental health problems.

2. Relationship problems

Conflict can damage relationships. It can also lead to the end of a relationship.

3. Violence

Conflict can lead to violence. This can include physical violence, verbal violence, and emotional violence.

4. Workplace problems

enhanced creativity, increased innovation, and improved problem-solving skills. However, if conflict is not properly managed, it can result in workplace problems such as absenteeism, decreased productivity, and job dissatisfaction. Therefore, it is crucial for employers to address conflicts in a constructive manner to foster a positive and productive work environment.

1. Growth and development:

Conflict can lead to growth and development. It can help people learn about themselves and others.

2. Positive change

Conflict can lead to positive change. It can help people learn new skills and find new solutions to problems.

3. Closer relationships

Conflict can lead to closer relationships. It can help people understand each other better and build trust.

How to Manage Conflict

To effectively manage conflict, it is crucial to first understand the various types and causes of conflict. Once you have identified the type of conflict at hand, you can then create a plan to manage it effectively. There are numerous strategies that can be utilized to manage conflict, with some of the most commonly used ones including:

1. Avoidance

Conflict can be avoided by simply avoiding the people or situations that cause it.

2. Compromise

Conflict can be managed by finding a middle ground that both parties can agree on.

3. Collaboration

Conflict can be Collaboration is a process in which both parties work together to find a solution that is acceptable to both.

4. Conflict resolution

Finding a resolution to conflict involves collaboration between all parties to reach an outcome that satisfies everyone. This typically involves utilizing techniques like negotiation, mediation, or arbitration to come to a mutually agreed-upon solution.

Effective conflict management involves being able to identify the root cause of a conflict, understanding the perspectives of all parties involved, and finding a mutually beneficial solution. By mastering this skill, individuals can not only prevent conflicts from escalating but also turn them into opportunities for growth and positive change.

Conclusion!

Managing conflict is crucial for maintaining successful relationships and a healthy life. While it can't be avoided, conflict can be approached constructively to achieve positive outcomes. Conflict management involves dealing with conflict in a way that promotes growth and development rather than destruction and violence.

What are your thoughts about conflict? Do you think it’s a necessary part of life? Or do you think it can be avoided? Let us know in the comments below.