Conflict:
Conflict can be defines as difference in opinions or disagreement on a common point. A conflict can be seen as clash of awareness. It can result in friction between the parties involved. Conflict can occur within a single person and two persons of a group or conflict between two groups. It is very important skill of a manager that helps him coping with the conflict in organisation. Presence of conflict can cause various complications in the organisation. Conflict is seen as breakdown of the decision taking mechanism. If case of a single person in conflict, it is state of mind that is in conflict.
It can be defined as a disagreement between two or more individuals or groups, with each individual or group trying to gain acceptance of its view or objectives over others.”- David Austin
The appearance of difference, difference of opinions, of interests is known as conflict-Follett
Conflict can be described as
- Antecedent conditions like shortage of resources, policy differences etc.
- Effective states of individual like tension, stress, anxiety etc.
- Cognitive states of individuals like sensitivity of alertness of conflicting situations
- Change in behaviors of a person like resistance or over aggression on a point.
Nature of conflict:
In the perspective of an organisation, common features of a conflict are as under
- Conflict arises when people are not able to opt among the available alternative courses of action. It is difficult for them to choose one option.
- Conflict between two persons means that they have conflicting perceptions, values and goals. There may be difference in view point of two individual associated with an event or thing due to difference in values of people.
- Conflict is a vibrant process as it shows a series of events. Each conflict is comprised of a series of interlinked conflict episodes. Complications between the parties may increase with time.
- Conflict must be alleged by the parties to it. If no one is aware of a conflict, then it is generally agreed that no conflict exists. There may be misunderstandings also and possibility of wrong perception that can give rise to conflict.