Understanding Conflict
What is Conflict?
A disagreement or struggle between people with different needs, values, or goals.
What’s a healthy way to react when you’re angry?
Take deep breaths, walk away, talk in a calm tone
What is active listening?
Complete effort to understand the meaning, tone, and emotions of the speaker.
What’s the first step in resolving a conflict?
Identify the problem
You and your friend both want to use the basketball at recess. What could you do?
Take turns or play together
True or False: All conflict is bad.
False- conflict can be positive if handled the healthy way
Name an unhealthy way to deal with conflict.
Yelling, Hitting, Ignoring, Spreading rumors
What are “I” statements?
Statements that express feelings without blaming (e.g., “I feel upset when…”).
After identifying the problem, what should you do next?
Talk calmly and listen to each other’s side.
You hear a rumor about you that isn’t true. What’s the best first step?
Talk directly to the person spreading it or ignore it calmly.
Name one of the common causes of conflict between friends
Miscommunication, Jealousy, Competition, Misunderstanding
What does it mean to “cool off” before responding?
Taking time to calm emotions before reacting.
Why is tone of voice important?
It can change how your message is received
Calm vs. Aggressive vs. Passive Aggressive
What does it mean to “brainstorm solutions”?
Think of multiple ways to solve the problem together.
Your group partner isn’t doing their share of work. What should you say?
“I feel stressed when I have to do everything. Can we split the work more evenly?”
What is the difference between internal and external conflict?
Internal is within yourself; external is between people.
Why is blaming others not helpful in conflict?
It prevents actually solving the problem and increases defensiveness
Give one example of good body language during conflict.
Nodding, keeping good eye contact, relaxed posture, facing the person, calm facial expression
Why is compromise important?
It helps both sides get part of what they want.
Two classmates start yelling at each other. What could a bystander do?
Encourage them to calm down or get an adult if needed.
What does “resolution” mean in conflict resolution?
Finding a peaceful solution that satisfies everyone involved.
What is a positive attitude to bring into conflict resolution?
Willingness to Listen, Compromise, and Show respect
What is the difference between assertive and aggressive communication?
Assertive = confident and respectful
Aggressive = forceful and disrespectful
What should you do after a conflict is resolved?
Reflect and make sure everyone feels respected and heard.
You and your sibling argue a lot. What’s one long-term strategy to reduce fights?
Practice communication, respect space, set rules together.