●What 3 ideas can we glean from this conversation to advance how we engage potential
or real conflict situations?
●How does each one help us to navigate conflict well
?
●What biblical truth contributes to this conversation? Explain your choice.
Hocker and Wilmont define conflict, “As an expressed struggle between at least two
interdependent parties who perceive incompatible goals, scarce resources, and interference
from others in achieving their goals (2017, pg.3)”. In the video “The Evil, The Foolish, and The
Wise”, Dr. Henry Cloud explained how to deal with each set of individuals as a leader. Dr. Cloud
explained that when dealing individual that are considered wise they will receive truth/
knowledge about issues, and will try to change themselves or actions to solve a problem. When
dealing with Wise individuals you keep them challenged, match them to things or duties that you
need them in, and make sure you have not outgrown them. Dr. Cloud explained that the Wise
individuals are the easiest way to deal with them, because they are willing to communicate and
listen. Dr. Cloud also explained that dealing with the Foolish individual can be very difficult they
make excuses, will not receive the message when you give them feedback. The Foolish will
blame others for the shortcomings and minimize problems.
Dr. Cloud stated the best way to protect yourself from Foolish individuals is to set limits
and limit your exposure to the problem with the individual. When dealing with a Foolish
individual you can ask them what method of communication works best for them, and ask them
how they would like their feedback. Once this is done you must create a plan, and if nothing
changes follow through with consequences. Dr. Cloud as speaks of the Evil individual whose
main purpose and goal is to be destructive, and the best way to deal with this individual is to
separate yourself from them. No matter what profession you choose you will always be faced
with some type of conflict, whether it is from outside source or within your own organization.
Lumineau, Eckerd, and Handley state, “Conflict is frequent and has important economic and
social consequences.
Conflict is a key characteristic of inter-organizational relationships since these
arrangements tend to contain within themselves the seeds of behavioural contradictions.” Dr.
Cloud states in the video that, “ You can’t lead everyone the same”. I believe that Dr. Cloud
insight into the Wise, Evil, and Foolish individuals that we encounter in the workplace can be
extremely helpful when deciphering how to deal with conflict. I believe that for an organization
to run effectively and achieve their goals communication must be at the forefront of all
operations. Ephesians 4:29 state, “ Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such
as is a good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear
(ESV)”. Proverbs 15:2 states, “The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of
fools pour out folly (ESV)”. As a Christians we must be mindful of what we say, and how we
communicate with others, because we are a reflection of Christ. I am a strong believe that life
and death are in the power of the tongue, and when we speak to individuals we have the power to
make a situation better or worst.
Reference
Lumineau, F., Eckerd, S., & Handley, S. (2015). Inter-organizational conflicts. Journal of
Strategic
Contracting and Negotiation,1
(1), 42-64. doi:10.1177/2055563614568493
Hocker, J. L., & Wilmot, W. W. (2018). Interpersonal conflict
(10th ed.). New York, NY:
McGraw-Hill Education.
Miles,
I agree God leads people to be leaders to help others work towards the plan God has constructed
for them. In the video “The Evil, The Foolish, and The Wise”, Dr. Cloud provided great insight
on how to deal with different types of individual and their attitudes towards authority in the
workplace. I believe that the strategies he provide to deal with each type of individual can be
extremely useful. I agree with Dr. Cloud that when dealing with a Evil individual, you should rid
yourself and company of them. More, Vito, and William explained that conflict occurs when
someone or something prevent someone from accomplishing a goal (2015, pg 219-220). Dr.
Cloud stated the best way to deal with a Fool is to give them choices, and follow through with
consequences. Proverbs 18:2 states, “ A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in
expressing his opinion. As leaders I believe the most important aspect of any job is learning how
to lead difficult people, without comprising the common goal of your agency. In my experience
as a probation officer, a leader that is able to communicate effectively to address arising conflicts
and provide solutions is a valuable asset.
References
More, H. W., Vito, G. F., & Walsh, W. F. (2012). Organizational behavior and management in
law enforcement
. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Aaron,
I agree that feedback is very important from a leadership perspective, and can sometimes be
confrontation. Hocker and Wilmont define conflict, “As an expressed struggle between at least
two interdependent parties who perceive incompatible goals, scarce resources, and interference
from others in achieving their goals (2017, pg.3)”. More, Vito, and William explained that conflict
occurs when someone or something prevent someone from accomplishing a goal (2015, pg
219-220). As a leader, one should learn how to deal with conflict and how to resolve effectively
resolve those issues. I also agree that once a manager can see how his or her subordinates
response to feedback, they can tailor their strategies to deal with them accordingly. In the video
“The Evil, The Foolish, and The Wise”, Dr. Cloud provided great insight on how to deal types of
people and how the receive criticism. Dr. Cloud explains how a Fool should be give a choice to
to full their job obligations, and also given consequences for when the don’t. Dr. Cloud also
stated that when dealing with a Evil individual the best solution is to distance yourself from
them, and get rid of them. The Wise individual is one who is open to criticism and learns from
his mistakes. The Wise individual is willing to seek knowledge, and attempt to better
themselves. Proverbs 18:2 states, “ A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in
expressing his opinion. Proverbs 13:1 states, “A wise son heeds his father’s instructions, but a
mocker does not respond to rebukes. As Christians we must always strive walk in Wisdom, and
guide the foolish to change their ways.
References
Hocker, J. L., & Wilmot, W. W. (2018). Interpersonal conflict
(10th ed.). New York, NY:
McGraw-Hill Education.
More, H. W., Vito, G. F., & Walsh, W. F. (2012). Organizational behavior and management in
law enforcement
. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
