TABLE 5.2. Characteristics of constructive versus destructive conflict
| Constructive Conflict | Destructive Conflict |
|---|---|
| Presenting evidence and reasons in support of ideas | Making emotional arguments; insisting that others should listen to you because of your experience or credentials |
| Accepting questions and criticisms of your ideas as good for the group | Treating questions and criticisms as personal attacks |
| Listening closely to others’ viewpoints | Rejecting others’ viewpoints before you fully understand their position |
| Asking others to present evidence supporting their positions so that you can make a reasoned decision | Mocking or ridiculing others’ positions |
| Building on others’ ideas and suggestions | Ignoring or dismissing others’ ideas |
| Disagreeing in order to find the best solution | Disagreeing for the fun of a fight |
| Being willing to change your mind | Refusing to reconsider your position |