Page 13 - Shared Solutions: A Guide to Preventing and Resolving Conflicts Regarding Programs and Services for Students with Special Education Needs 2007

away may be a sign that a person has difficulty acknowledging that there is a problem or that there is merit in the other person’s point of view.
CONFRONTATION
Confrontation involves acting on the belief that only one side is right or that there is only one perspective on an issue. While an adversarial response may be taken if a legal right is at the heart of the conflict, emotions can run high and relationships may suffer long-term damage. Confrontation also creates a “win–lose” situation and may not serve the long-term interests of the parties.
ACQUIESCENCE
Acquiescence involves giving in to the other side. As with avoidance, this response may sometimes be appropriate. For example, if more will be lost through damaged relationships than through giving way, giving in may seem to be the most constructive response. However, if the party who gives in feels pres- sured or ill-used, resentment or a sense of grievance may follow and lead to dif- ficulties at a later date.
Each of these types of response has merit in some situations. Recognizing when one of these approaches is appropriate is an important skill. However, these responses are not the only possible options. By expanding their repertoire of conflict resolution strategies beyond these limited reactions, both parents and educators can significantly enhance their ability to achieve satisfactory solutions to conflict. Suggestions for developing and enhancing collaborative conflict reso- lution skills and approaches are provided in Chapter 6 of this guide.
Factors Contributing to Conflict
A variety of factors can contribute, separately or in combination, to cause a con- flict and/or to complicate or even prevent its resolution. It is important to note that conflict may be complex and that the real conflict may not be about the content but about the process used to resolve the conflict or the quality of the relationship of the people involved in the conflict.
Analysing a conflict to determine what factors are involved can help identify steps that might lead to a solution. The chart that follows describes some of these factors and possible steps that can be taken to reduce their negative impact.
Understanding Conflict
11