Chapter 8 Essay Quiz

Chapter 8 Essay Quiz

Question 8.21

1. Describe the three outcomes of productive conflict.

• Fosters healthy debate • Leads to better decision making • Spurs relationship growth

Question 8.22

2. Describe the four conflict triggers highlighted in the chapter.

• Misunderstandings or errors of perception • Perceptions of unbalanced costs and rewards • Incompatible goals between partners • Provocation (the intentional instigation of conflict)

Question 8.23

3. Define the three communication climates that might influence how relational partners manage conflict.

• Uncertain climates (at least one party is unclear, vague, tentative, or awkward about the goals, expectations, and potential outcomes of the conflict situation) • Defensive climates (the people involved feel threatened) • Supportive climates (offer communicators a chance to honestly and considerately explore the issues involved in the conflict situation)

Question 8.24

4. Describe the three basic strategies used to manage conflict.

• Escapist strategies (avoid direct conflict and are good for quick resolutions, but they may leave issues unresolved) • Challenging strategies (promote the interests of individuals who use assertiveness to get their own way) • Cooperative strategies (benefit the relationship, serve mutual rather than individual goals, and strive to produce solutions that benefit both parties)

Question 8.25

5. Identify the five ways cooperative conflict management may be attained.

• Focusing on the issues • Debating (probing and playing devil’s advocate) • Considering options and alternatives • Weighing and communicating the importance of the outcome • Reassuring the other party of the intent to resolve the conflict cooperatively