What Roles Does Conflict Play in Group Communication?

What role does conflict play in group communication? Provide examples of group situations that illustrate conflict in group communication.

Effective information transfer requires the listener to understand the symbols being used by the sender. Anytime there is a breakdown in the communication process, there may be conflict. Conflict during communication can be a catalyst for getting to the source of a disagreement.

Conflict can ignite from the smallest word or action and can spark destructive responses and behaviors. Unresolved or poorly navigated conflict can damage and even destroy relationships. Conflict does not have to be destructive however. Handled effectively, conflict can actually contribute to stronger, deeper relationships and can help to address ongoing problems and concerns. Effective communication skills serve a key role in successfully resolving conflict, both in the home and in the workplace

Conflict may be defined as a struggle or contest between people with opposing needs, ideas, beliefs, values, or goals. Conflict on teams is inevitable; however, the results of conflict are not predetermined. Conflict might escalate and lead to nonproductive results, or conflict can be beneficially resolved and lead to quality final products. Therefore, learning to manage conflict is integral to a high-performance team. Although very few people go looking for conflict, more often than not, conflict results because of miscommunication between people with regard to their needs, ideas, beliefs, goals, or values. Conflict management is the principle that all conflicts cannot necessarily be resolved, but learning how to manage conflicts can decrease the odds of nonproductive escalation. Conflict management involves acquiring skills related to conflict resolution, self-awareness about conflict modes, conflict communication skills, and establishing a structure for management of conflict in your environment.

Listening, oral communication, interpersonal...