Discussion 1

Describe the main function of emotions in conflict resolution activities. Provide a conflict example which supports how emotions help people adapt.

Review the list of common misconceptions about emotions in the text. Discuss one of the misconceptions about emotions. How does this misconception hinder effective conflict resolution?

Discussion 2

List and explain in your own words the benefits of systems theory as a framework for understanding conflict. Be sure to provide specific personal examples.

The text discusses conflict patterns including conflict triangles, coalitions, rules, metaphors, patterning, and micro-events. Explain one of these patterns and provide an example of how one of these patterns applies to the conflict in the case study, "Eye to Eye."

Discussion 3

Describe a conflict situation involving the competitive approach to negotiation. Explain how one of the collaborative communication techniques (expanding the pie, nonspecific compensation, cost cutting or bridging) could be used to transform the conflict. How does collaborative negotiation correlate with conflict styles?

Read "The Rainbow Development Water Problem" case on pages 274-275 of the text. Respond to the following questions:

Specify competitive, collaborative, and transformative approaches to defining this problem.

Describe each of the seven elements of principled negotiation and how it can be used to transform this conflict?

Discussion 4

Describe a situation when you engaged in or utilized informal third party intervention. Was it successful in resolving the conflict? Why or why not? Describe cautions of informal intervention. How does this information help you in choosing to engage in or use informal intervention in the future?

What criteria would you use to choose which form of third party intervention is best? Provide a conflict example that would benefit from third party intervention. Which type of intervention would you use? What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Discussion 5

Discuss one aspect of forgiveness or reconciliation from Chapter 10 that is meaningful to you. How does it change your perspective?

This course has provided you with extensive information about the nature of conflict. List three elements you found most significant in this course and why. In addition, what personal changes have you made in your own conflict approach?

The book is Interpersonal conflict / Joyce L. Hocker, William W. Wilmot.-9th ed.