MGT 365 Lecture 10: Functions & Benefits of Conflict

• School: Pace University
• Department: Management
• Course: MGT 365
• Professor: Richardson

Document Summary

Discussing conflict makes organizational members more aware & able to cope w/ problems: knowing that others are frustrated & want change creates incentives to try to solve underlying problem. Conflict promises organizational change & adaptation: procedures, assignments, budget allocations, other organizational practices are challenged, conflict draws attention to those issues that may interfere w/ & frustrate employees. Conflict strengthens relationships & heightens morale: employees realize their relationships are strong enough to withstand test of conflict, need not avoid frustrations & problems, can release tensions through discussion & problem solving. Conflict enhances personal development: managers find out how style affects subordinates through conflict, workers learn what technical & interpersonal skills they need to upgrade themselves. Conflict encourages psychological development: helps ppl, become more accurate & realistic in self-appraisals, take others" perspectives & become less egocentric, believe they"re powerful & capable of controlling own lives. They don"t simply need to endure hostility & frustration but can act to improve their lives.