COMS 560
MODULE/WEEK 1 CHAPTER NOTES
CONFLICT COMMUNICATION AND THE OPTIONS
Reflect on the following as you complete your reading:
Cahn & Abigail 1: Introduction to the Study of Conflict Communication
1. Note the objectives of chapter 1.
2. Note the key terms of chapter 1. These terms show up throughout the chapter and are usually
highlighted. Be sure you understand what all highlighted terms mean.
3. Understand Cahn’s definition of interpersonal conflict with the four unique characteristics Key terms
that impact the definition are bolded and should receive careful attention: problematic situation,
interdependence, perception, incompatible goals, incompatible means, adverse effects, sense of urgency.
4. Complete the sentence: To me, conflict is like . . .
5. What is a conflict metaphor?
6. Be able to defend these statements:
a. “Conflict is inevitable,” but “Interpersonal violence is not a fact of life.”
b. “Conflict communication may be productive or destructive.”
7. Be able to define the following conflict words: conflict management, conflict resolution, meta-
communication, meta-conflict perspective, process view of conflict.
8. What is the difference between the linear approach and transactional approach in models of
communication?
9. What is the difference between positive view of conflict and a negative view of conflict? Why is a
positive view of conflict more helpful?
10. Interact with the process view of conflict in Fig. 1.1
11. Be able to define each of the process view elements. Pay special attention to the examples given in the
text.
12. Why is respect for the “other” necessary to conflict resolution?
13. Interact with the five specific rules of civil language at work according to Troester and Mester.
Cahn & Abigail 2 Communication Options in Conflict
1. Note the objectives of Chapter 2.
2. Note the key terms of Chapter 2.
3. What is the difference between a Tangible and Intangible Issue in a conflict?
4. Dysfunctional conflict cycles include the three options of 1. Avoiding/accommodating conflict,
2.Competitive conflict, and 3. Passive-aggressive communication approaches. Be sure to understand
each negative style.
5. Functional conflicts cycles include: 1. Compromising, collaborating, avoiding early compromising. Be
sure to understand each possible style.
6. Why is collaboration the preferred approach?
7. What does stress have to do with conflict? What are the types of stress that effect conflict?
8. What is the criteria or basis for choosing the appropriate options for dealing with stress?
Borisoff & Victor 1
1. Interact with the definitions of conflict and note their similarities and differences. Compare also to
Cahn’s definition.
2. Note the importance and advancement in studying conflict over the last 25 years.
3. Be able to explain the five-step model for conflict management.
4. Be able to define mediation and each of the stages one goes through in the process.
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COMS 560
5. Know the differences between mediation and arbitration.
6. Review the process elements of making an apology. Do you find it hard to apologize? Do you find the 4-
step process of apology helpful?
Sande 1
1. Familiarize yourself with The Slippery Slope chart and focus on the types of ways individuals handle
conflict.
2. Interact with the way Sande defines conflict. Compare it to other definitions you have read.
3. Do you agree with Sande that conflict management and methods discussed are ways to glorify God?
4. Think about the idea that conflict is one of tools that God will use to help you develop a more Christ-like
character.
Sande 2
Sande works from a premise that peace and unity is a picture of the Christ-like life and suggests that the primary
benefit of resolving disputes is that it preserves our witness for Christ. Do you accept his premise? What
challenge does this reality present for us who find ourselves in conflict situations?
Sande 3
Sande’s discussion on trusting God may seem like it is extra-topical for our subject of conflict. You might be
saying, “This is a good discussion about trusting, but what does it have to do with conflict. Be sure to apply the
questions to a specific conflict situation you may find yourself in to explain why it is important to trust God in
conflict situations.
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