3 Causes of Conflicts in the Workplace

Every workplace has conflicts. They can begin with a simple disagreement and quickly escalate into an argument that impedes team productivity.

Depending on the organizational structure, conflict can take various forms (Jaffe, 2000).

Before attempting to resolve any conflict it is always important to determine exactly what is causing it. Understanding what triggers can because conflict makes resolution easier to reach and conflict easier to avoid in the first place. There are an infinite number of reasons why conflict can occur in the workplace, however a small number of causes are most common and we have looked at them here.

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Differences in Values and Beliefs

One of the primary causes of conflict is differences in values and beliefs. Every individual has unique values and beliefs that they hold dear and these can often clash with those of others. When people come together in groups, they bring their values and beliefs with them and conflicts arise when there is a clash of these values. For example, two colleagues may have different opinions on how a project should be executed based on their values and beliefs, leading to a conflict. Similarly, in personal relationships, differences in values and beliefs regarding religion, politics, or culture can lead to conflicts.

Competition for Scarce Resources

Employees rely on resources like technology, office supplies, and meeting rooms to perform well. Unfortunately, not everyone has constant access to the resources they desire. If someone is unable to access resources because someone else is using them, this can lead to conflict. A manager’s role may then be to determine who has legitimate access to the resource and how it will be distributed in the future.

When there is competition for scarce resources, conflicts can arise. For example, two employees competing for a promotion can lead to conflicts in the workplace. Similarly, in personal relationships, two people competing for the attention of a third person can lead to conflicts

Misunderstandings and Communication Breakdowns

Misunderstandings and communication breakdowns are also common causes of conflict. Misunderstandings occur when people interpret situations or actions differently, leading to confusion and conflict. Communication breakdowns occur when people fail to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. For example, a manager may give unclear instructions to an employee, leading to confusion and conflict. Similarly, in personal relationships,misunderstandings and communication breakdowns can lead to conflicts.

In conclusion, conflicts can arise from various causes, including differences in values and beliefs, competition for scarce resources and misunderstandings and communication breakdowns. Understanding the causes of conflict is essential for managing and resolving conflicts effectively. By identifying the root cause of conflicts, individuals and organizations can work towards preventing conflicts and fostering harmonious relationships. Conflict Management is very important because it is always wise to prevent a fight at the first place rather than facing its negative consequences.

Stress disappears, people feel motivated and the world definitely becomes a much better place to stay as a result of conflict management