Understanding and Managing Conflict in Your Personal and Work Lives : A Behavioral Approach

Understanding and Managing Conflict in Your Personal and Work Lives: A Behavioral Approach introduces readers to an innovative way of thinking about and reacting to dissonance in relationships. Instead of shying away from conflict, the text encourages readers to view instances of disagreement or discord as opportunities to examine their own behavior, learn and grow from their experiences, solve problems, and move forward.

The opening chapter examines the differences between interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict, as well as constructive and destructive conflict. Readers learn how their personal history and personal characteristics affect the ways in which they react to conflict, as well as how they perceive it. Dedicated chapters address common behavioral responses, the role of motivation, and emotional responses to conflict. Readers learn how conflict and behavioral chains can develop over time and how these can contribute to recurring instances of tension within relationships. They develop skillsets related to creative problem-solving, negotiating outcomes, and managing team conflict. Third-party interventions and the role of power in conflict are also discussed.

A comprehensive and empowering guide, Understanding and Managing Conflict in Your Personal and Work Lives is an ideal textbook for courses in psychology, especially those with focus on behavior and organizational leadership.

Marla I. Hall, Ph.D. is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Cincinnati, where she teaches courses in psychology and organizational leadership. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in psychology with specialization in behavior analysis from West Virginia University. Dr. Hall’s research focuses on the application of performance management strategies in businesses and organizations.