Biology Homework

Conflict Handling Styles

Winnie Nyamapfumba

Nightingale College

BSN335 Concepts of Professionalism, Management, and Leadership

Professor Kathleen Penzes

February 15, 2026

According to the self-assessment, which ‘conflict handling approach’ best describes you? Do you think this accurately describes you?

Based on the results of the self-assessment, the conflict-handling approach that best describes me is compromising. In Leading and Managing in Nursing, Yoder-Wise and Sportsman (2023) describe compromising as a middle-ground strategy in which each person gives up something to achieve a mutually acceptable solution. He explains that this approach reflects moderate levels of assertiveness and cooperation. I believe this accurately describes me because I am willing to negotiate fairly and seek workable solutions rather than prolong disagreements that could hinder team function and patient care.

Which conflict-handling style do you think is most effective for resolving conflict? Briefly describe a time when you have seen this approach in action. What was the outcome?

I think the compromising style is most effective because when reacting to conflict using this style, individuals aim to balance competing interests so that no single viewpoint dominates. Compromising allows team members to acknowledge differing opinions, discuss priorities, and reach a solution that everyone can reasonably accept (Yoder-Wise & Sportsman, 2023). Rahim (2017) explains that the compromising style is most effective when the issue is moderately important and when a timely resolution is preferable to extended negotiation. In fast-paced healthcare settings, this approach promotes efficiency while maintaining professional relationships.

During one shift at my previous job as a Mental Health Technician, I observed the compromising conflict management style in action during a disagreement between a nurse and a patient regarding medication administration. The patient was hesitant to take a newly prescribed antipsychotic medication due to concerns about side effects, while the nurse emphasized the importance of adherence to stabilize symptoms. Rather than insisting on full compliance or dismissing the patient’s concerns, the nurse used a compromising approach. She acknowledged the patient’s fears and collaborated with the provider to adjust the timing of the medication and begin with a lower dose while closely monitoring for side effects. This compromise allowed the patient to feel heard and respected, while still supporting the clinical goal of symptom management. This experience demonstrated how compromising can preserve trust and maintain patient-centered care, especially in mental health settings where autonomy and collaboration are essential.

How can you be a more effective communicator – both in normal conversation and during a conflict? What modifications to your current nonverbal and verbal communication patterns can you make to be a more effective communicator?

To become a more effective communicator in both routine interactions and during conflict, I can strengthen my active-listening skills and practice mindful communication. Active listening involves fully concentrating, responding thoughtfully, and observing nonverbal cues. Shapiro et al. (2019) emphasize that mindful communication enhances mutual understanding and reduces misinterpretation in healthcare environments. Additionally, maintaining open body posture, steady eye contact, and a calm tone of voice can reduce defensiveness and promote trust. By intentionally developing both verbal and nonverbal communication skills, I can enhance conflict resolution and contribute to a positive team environment.

References

Rahim, M. A. (2017). Managing conflict in organizations (4th ed.). Routledge.

Shapiro, S. L., Kristeller, J. L., & Monti, D. A. (2019). Mindfulness and communication in healthcare. Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings.

Yoder-Wise, P. S., & Sportsman, S. (2023). Leading and Managing in Nursing (8th ed.). Elsevier.

Bottom of Form