Most people view conflict with some dread. Conflict, however, can be constructive as well as destructive. Our communication determines the difference. Destructive conflict is typified by escalating spirals of conflict that can easily turn ugly. Constructive conflict is characterized by controlling or de-escalating conflict by using a We-orientation, cooperation, and flexibility in applying communication styles of conflict management. There are five communication styles of conflict management: collaborating, accommodating, compromising, avoiding, and competing. Collaborating has the greatest potential for appropriately and effectively managing conflict; competing has the least potential. Learning to control our anger and to manage the anger of others is an important part of dealing with conflict effectively. The final stage of conflict is forgiveness. Forgiveness is letting go of the desire for revenge and retaliation. Intercultural conflicts can be extremely difficult to manage because members of individualist and collectivist cultures differ dramatically in how they view conflict and how best to manage it.
