It is common for us to think of conflict as a negative interaction. Consequently we avoid conflict, using other destructive mechanisms that affect relationships, creativity, and productivity in our work. Building Conflict Competent Teams provides a road map for evaluating team conflict competence by describing sources of conflict and when conflict is likely to arise within teams. Understanding the “why” and “how” points the reader to the possibilities for learning from conflict. Conflict competence improves team function and creativity.

The book is based on the following premises: (1) conflict is inevitable, (2) conflict can have both positive and negative results, (3) people often use fight-or-flight responses to conflict, and (4) people can learn more effective conflict skills.

The bulk of the book focuses on developing trust and emotional control within teams to be able to talk frankly and openly when conflict arises. It is only within this framework that issues...

You do not currently have access to this content.