Organizational Conflict Essays - Organizational Theory, Conflict

Organizational Conflict I was recently involved in a conflict in an organization where I worked, and I learned a number of things from my involvement in it. First, I learned that if someone in an organization wants to draw you into their conflict, it is very difficult to avoid it even though you may work hard at avoidance. Second, I learned that many conflicts are a matter of perception on the various sides of the argument; if everyone involved knew all the facts, the conflict might not even exist. Third, I learned that an active conflict is a detriment not only to all of the individuals involved but also to the people around them. And finally, I learned that the perception of conflict is the chief catalyst for inciting conflict; when conflict can stay ounder the radar,o it is not as likely to escalate into a full-blown catastrophe. The conflict that the individual in question, whom I will call Patty, originated started at the first stage of conflict, potential antagonism (Bhushan). Patty had been passed over for promotion, and the job she wanted was given to one of her peers, Trisha. This situation created resentment for Patty, as well as a bit of anxiety concerning her standing in the company and concern over whether her contributions were being recognized. Since the company was making some layoffs, she wondered whether being passed over indicated that her position or she herself were on the chopping block. The second stage of conflict, the perception of conflict and personalization of it, occurred when TrishaAs boss demoted Patty to a lower position that she had occupied some years earlier (Bhushan). Patty saw this as extremely threatening, viewing it as the last step before she was booted out the door. It was very personal to her, because the demotion did not happen to anyone in the department except her. Although Trisha actually had nothing to do with PattyAs dilemma, Patty blamed her and went around badm outhing her to others, including me.