Introduction
It is difficult to avoid conflict 100% of the time. Therefore, when it does arise it is essential to know the answers to the questions in the full article. It may also be helpful to consider the following:
- Your need to resolve conflict
- Your understanding of potential cultural barriers to reaching a resolution
- How to identify of the best method of conflict resolution.
Need to resolve conflict
To minimize or eliminate cross-cultural conflicts or misunderstandings, it is essential for all parties to be committed to resolving differences and take responsibility for bridging the cultural gaps.
This means that each party is aware of the prejudices and biases which could influence the possibility of resolution and restoration of productive harmonious relationships. Each person is cognizant of the factors which are contributing to cultural differences and are willing to identify compromises. All parties answered the questions outlined in the earlier sections and are aware of their own cultural beliefs and practice.
Each person is prepared to use effective communication skills to demonstrate openness, active listening, and empathy, and is willing to state when language is a barrier and an interpreter would enhance communication.
Understanding personal resistance
It is not uncommon for individuals to resist naming the problem or avoid solving it. The individual may resist examining his culture, beliefs, values, stereotypes and biases. He may even deny that the conflict is real or blame others for the situation.
When a person does not identify the root cause, he may not recognize the best time and method to solve the issue, or minimize his role in reaching a resolution. He may even fail to identify the potential methods for conflict resolution available to him.
Methods of conflict resolution
It is essential to identify the methods of conflict resolution which are acceptable from a cultural perspective. Imposed methods do not yield the results that can be expected from mutually-accepted methods.
Prior to engaging in conflict resolution, it is vital to identify the similarity and differences between the parties’ cultural practices, acknowledge the differences, and endeavour to balance the interests of all parties. This can be accomplished by focusing and building on the similarities between the parties and ensuring that a power imbalance does not exist.
Where mediation is chosen because a neutral person is required to facilitate the process, it is important that the mediator is agreeable to all parties.
Final Comment
Conflict will occur. It can be healthy and assist individuals who come from differing cultures to understand various ways of thinking and behaving. Unfortunately, people take their beliefs for granted and it is not until conflict occurs that they need to step back and consider other points of view.
When people are able to look objectively at their beliefs and values and compare them to those of others, conflict resolution can proceed harmoniously. When people resist other ways of thinking and are unable to identify their role in conflict, the assistance of a mediator may be essential.
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