Conflict and Stress Management

What is Conflict?
• Conflict struggle between people with opposing needs, wishes, or demands
Myth Truth Conflicts is dysfunctional Conflict is a normal part of life All
conflicts can be resolved Most conflicts can at least be managed Conflicts will
go away if ignored Conflict can motivate change Conflicts result in a winner
and a loser Conflict can strengthen relationships
Positive Effects of Conflict
• Energizes people
• Opens up channels of communication that may not already exist
• Parties involved can learn from the experience
Negative Effects of Conflict
• Anger/Resentment can make it difficult for a working relationship to continue
• Unresolved conflicts can lead to misconceptions about parties involved
• Ongoing conflict makes it difficult to focus on jobs
Types of Business Conflict
• Interpersonal Conflict
Between individuals that perceive or value a situation differently
• Intergroup Conflict
Between groups/teams/departments within an organization
• Organizational Conflict
Between employees and the organization itself
Managing Conflict
• Create positive atmosphere
Parties involved can meet in a quiet, neutral setting
• Keep an open mind
Don’t take one side or the other unless absolutely necessary
Be nonjudgmental
• It may not be important to you, but it is to others
• Encourage employees to work together to resolve conflicts before they escalate

Stress in the Workplace

• Stress
Any physical, chemical, or emotional factor causing bodily harm or mental
tension
“Workplace stress could be the #1 health problem in the U.S.” (former pres. of
American Institute of Stress)
Effects of Stress
• Positive Effects
Some enjoy high pressure situations
• Get bored without some stress/pressure
Can be motivating in the right dose – Can lead to greater productivity
• Negative Effects
 Emotional
Physical
Burnout. Lose interest in job.
Sources of Workplace Stress
• Job mismatch
• Conflicting expectations
• Role ambiguity
• Role overload
• Poor working conditions
• Unsatisfying work relationships
• Alienation
Managing Stress
• Employer assistance with employee personal problems is increasing
• Identifying stress early can save a great deal of both money and anxiety
• EAP—Employee Assistance Program
Puts employees in touch with professionals
• Social worker, psychologist, counselor, etc
• All confidential
• Wellness Programs
Company sponsored programs to prevent illness and enhance employee well
being
• Educational programs
• Medical exams
• Workout facilities
Stress Management
• Approach problems with a positive outlook
• Communicate when problems begin
• Reward yourself for even small accomplishments
• Take time for yourself
– Enjoy the ride, not just the destination!