Unproductive Conflict

Unproductive Conflict

Page 169

image
Even with matters as simple as making plans for a Friday night, we may be uncompromising and create unproductive conflict or discuss the options, reach an agreement, and act on it.

If you haven’t already guessed, Lisa and Steven’s approach to managing their conflict over money was an unproductive one. Unproductive conflict is conflict that is managed poorly and has a negative impact on the individuals and relationships involved.

In many respects, our relationships—including those with family, friends, colleagues, and romantic partners—are defined by how we manage conflict. But the damage of unproductive conflict isn’t always limited to relationships. Researchers have discovered that when conflict is handled poorly those involved can experience medical problems, including emotional distress (Davies, Sturge-Apple, Cicchetti, & Cummings, 2008), mood disorders (Segrin, Hanzal, & Domschke, 2009), heart disease, and immune deficiency (Canary, 2003).