Conflict Resolution

Definition

Conflict resolution involves the process of resolving a dispute or a conflict by providing each side's needs and adequately addressing their interests so that they are satisfied with the outcome.

Analogy

Think about conflict resolution like untangling headphones. Each knot (or issue) needs to be addressed individually, but you also need to keep in mind how untangling one knot might affect others. It requires patience, understanding, and careful attention to detail.

Related terms

Negotiation: A method by which people settle differences. It is a process by which compromise or agreement is reached while avoiding argument and dispute.

Mediation: An intervention in a dispute in order to resolve it; mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), a way of resolving disputes between two or more parties with concrete effects.

Arbitration: A technique for the resolution of disputes outside the courts, where the parties to a dispute refer it to one or more persons (the "arbitrators", "arbiters" or "arbitral tribunal"), by whose decision (the "award") they agree to be bound.