One of the types of conflict we reviewed this week was relational conflict - it is one of the more common ones because we are human and will have differences! Relational conflict consists of:

Esteem - we want our own esteem needs satisfied; others want their esteem needs to be satisfied as well. When those needs are not fulfilled, we experience relational conflict. When we believe we're not being recognized or receiving our "fair share," we feel slighted and conflicted on the relational level with others.

Control - occurs when a person's needs for control are incompatible with another's needs for control. This is common in leadership situations; the role of a leader brings with it a certain inherent level of control and responsibility.

Affiliation - if our needs for closeness are not satisfied in our relationships, we feel frustrated and experience feelings of conflict. Of course, some people like to be very involved and very close in their relationships, while others prefer less involvement and more distance. In any case, when others behave in ways that are incompatible with our own desires for warmth and affection, feelings of conflict emerge.

In your discussion post, share the following:

Of the three kinds of relational conflict, outline which is most common in the conflicts you have with others. Explain.

• Describe your conflict style (Collaborating, Competing, Avoiding, Accommodating, or Compromising) - how you deal with conflict.