proper resolution of conflicts that is free of violence
Disagreements in the society are inevitable since everyone has an idea which is likely to face opposition from another person’s idea. These conflicts are common and part of our natural lives. Conflicts resolution creates jobs for a lot of professionals, such as lawyers and judges who act as mediators in resolving these disagreements. Resolving conflicts should not be a life and death process, it should be a civil and smooth process. It is paramount that for us to realize proper resolution of conflicts that is free of violence, we should have incorruptible mechanisms and institutions. How people solve these problems says a lot on their upbringing and the style they use to resolve the conflicts.
My family and country are both low-context cultures. When we have conflicts at home, my parents do not ignore the disagreements, instead they face the problems head on. Dialogue between my parents occur immediately until a solution is found. My parents do not wait for the conflicts to fade away naturally unlike in a high-context family. Dialogue in my family allows my parents to consider each others point of view which maintains respect between them. Also, the United States is a low-context country meaning that people prefer to take a direct approach in conflict resolution. People do not adopt the strategy of avoiding or compromising conflicts in the hope that they will disappear in a naturally in future.
When I was still living with my parents I learned that conflict resolution is essential as soon as the problem occurs. Avoiding or postponing resolution of a disagreement makes the situation worse. But as a grown up I prefer a quick and direct approach to any argument rather than a delayed solution both at home and in school. As a collectivist I am more concerned with group goals, I am inclined to sacrifice my individual objectives. For example a university which considers individualism as its culture expects each student to work individually and it baffles international students who are conversant with this approach. I have also learned that some conflicts disappear naturally and that some direct approaches accelerate conflicts.
Resolving conflicts is paramount. When my parents had a problem, I noticed that they separated their relationship from the conflict. My parents never brought their relationship into the argument no matter how bad it was. Paying attention to the other person’s issues should always be a priority to make sober decisions. Conflicting parties should set out all the facts and examine possible solutions, solutions should not be based on individual emotions but on the facts present.. Some problems are complex and it requires more deliberation, and the involved parties should avoid presuming that there is only one correct solution. All parties should be given enough time to present their facts. Listening reflectively and committing to a solution by everyone is essential to realize a solution.
After the conflict, there is a party that will emerge as the winner but it should be a learning experience for both parties. Dealing with the negative emotions is important and people should see the process as exchange of benefits. When people blame one another or avoid the problem finding a solution is not possible. I have learned that you can find solutions in a peaceful manner if all parties involved in the conflict decide to work together. Healthy conflict necessitate an environment of trust in which parties speak what is in their mind. I have learned that I cannot lose my job by having a problem with my employer.