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Managing Conflict in the Small Group 317

Recap: A Quick Review

ometimes resolution of conflict within a group or between groups simply does not
Soccur. When principled negotiation fails, there are alternatives.
1. The group leader can step in and with structured mediation try to show group
members how they can select an alternative through compromise. If a stalemate
still ensues, members are left with other alternatives.
2. When integrative solutions are not found after repeated attempts, then members
can vote. Although not the best way to break a stalemate, it may be the only way
to move on.
3. The group leader can step in and force an alternative by making the decision for
the group.
4. Third-party arbitrators can be brought in to select an alternative. These individuals
are brought in when the leader and the group believe that all else has failed.

QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW

Lori, Tony, Kevin, Diedre, and Chris worked through a 3. What are the substantive and affective conflicts
lot of conflict to reach their goal of selecting their univer- between them? How are they interrelated?
sity’s speaker series. 4. How do their conflict styles clash? What are the
patterns of their tactics? What kinds of conse-
1. How can you apply the definition of conflict to
their case? How was it expressed? How were they quences occur in light of these patterns?
interdependent with each other? What were the 5. How could each member better follow the ethical
scarce rewards and incompatible goals? Who is principles for disagreement?
interfering with whom? 6. How could you advise them to redirect their confron-
2. Who appear to be the innovative deviants? How tational efforts along more principled negotiation?
could their conversation change to show better 7. If their negotiation failed to produce a speaker list,
innovative deviance? which alternative would be best to select in an effort
to break their stalemate? Why?

KEY TERMS

Test your knowledge of these key terms in this chapter. Definitions can be found in the Glossary.

Accommodation Compromise Process conflict
Avoidance Conflict Relationship conflict
Coalition Deviate Task conflict
Collaboration Facework
Competition Principled negotiation

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