Conflict and Communication

Conflict and Communication acknowledges the inevitable presence of conflict in our lives and the role good communication plays in managing conflict to cultivate a healthier, happier existence. The book explores the ways in which we process and act on conflict, as well as how we can leverage a deeper understanding of our own thoughts and behaviors to reduce the amount and severity of conflict in our lives. Opening chapters provide a basis for understanding conflict - from an overview of conflict in our lives to an inventory of our individual power and conflict styles to the oft-overlooked role that culture plays in our understanding of conflict. Later chapters look at the practical application of these ideas in common settings such as negotiation, dealing with aggression, and mediation. A distinctive chapter on apology and forgiveness brings a very human, emotional element to the idea of conflict resolution. A professional mediator, author Fred E. Jandt includes many real-life examples of conflict throughout the text. The second edition features additional examples for deconstructing conflicts, integrated material on online resolution, and expanded coverage on conflicts in organizations and in the family. New Key Takeaways sections in each chapter help students apply newfound understanding and knowledge to real-life situations. Conflict and Communication equips students with research-based techniques, grounded in communication theory, to mitigate destructive consequences of conflict.