Think about a problem or conflict that you're currently dealing with at home, at school, at work or elsewhere. Analyze the conflict using Hocker & Wilmot's definition of conflict in your text. Consider :-
- Expressed Struggle: When and how did both parties become aware of the conflict?
- Perceived Incompatible Goals: What goals do each party have that are incompatible? Do you feel they are truly incompatible: Or can you see options for mutually satisfying solutions?
- Perceived Scarce Resources: What are the resources in this conflict that either party may perceive as limited?
- Interdependence: What, specifically, does one party depend on the other for, and ice-versa?
- Interference from the Other Party: Is your conflict a minor dispute or a full-fledged conflict? How have the parties acted to prevent each other from reaching their goals?
Now, answer the following questions:
* What is your general attitude toward conflict?
* How important are the goals of the other party to you? Can you envision a solution in which both of your needs and goals are met, or are you mostly concerned with defending yourself?
* Speculate about positive, constructive outcomes that may occur from handling this conflict effectively.
* Did you learn anything new about your conflict from analyzing it in this way?