The Roots of Workplace Conflict
Conflict is inevitable when people work together. Understanding its sources helps you address root causes rather than just symptoms.
Common Sources of Conflict:
- Resource Scarcity: Competition for limited budget, people, time, or space.
- Value Differences: People prioritize different things (e.g. speed vs quality).
- Goal Misalignment: Conflicting objectives between teams.
- Role Ambiguity: Unclear or overlapping responsibilities.
- Communication Breakdown: Misunderstandings or withheld info.
- Personality Clashes: Different styles or preferences.
- Power Dynamics: Real or perceived inequalities.
- Change & Uncertainty: Stress and disagreement during transitions.
- Unmet Needs: Lack of respect, autonomy, recognition, etc.
- Past History: Old conflicts influencing current behavior.
Levels of Conflict:
- Intrapersonal
- Interpersonal
- Intragroup
- Intergroup
Conflict Escalation Pattern:
- Latent
- Perceived
- Felt
- Manifest
- Aftermath
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Conflict:
Task Conflict: Respectful debate of ideas (healthy).
Relationship Conflict: Personal, emotional, damaging (unhealthy).
Early Warning Signs:
- Terse emails
- Avoidance
- Gossip
- Passive-aggression
- Tense meetings
- Absenteeism
Root Cause Analysis:
Ask: What’s the surface issue vs real problem? What needs aren’t met? What systemic issues contribute?