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How Appreciating Conflicting Social Norms can Promote Social Harmony

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How Appreciating Conflicting Social Norms can Promote Social Harmony

The value of protocol, etiquette and codes of behavior shape our everyday life. Social norms and rules can be complicated, but they serve an important role in conflict management. In most cases, they exist to preserve social harmony, communicate expectations, deter conflict and foster respect. They vary from situation to situation and culture to culture. Some are formal, others informal but equally important to preserving harmony within groups. As the world becomes interconnected, these variations can also lead to conflict. While we may not all agree on the rules, in my experience, most people are inclined to want peace and harmony at the end of the day. Sometimes the simple act of appreciating conflicting social norms can promote social harmony.

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More Than a Day or Week: the World is Embracing Conflict Resolution

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More Than a Day or Week: the World is Embracing Conflict Resolution

Building on the momentum of International Peace Day, which occurs every year on September 21, October ushers in more opportunities to celebrate the conflict resolution field. Specifically, Ombuds Day, Mediation Week, and Conflict Resolution Day are designed to highlight alternative dispute resolution options. It is not possible to create sustainable peace on a small or large scale without the work of mediators, ombuds and other professionals committed to peaceful conflict resolution. Conflict naturally occurs in our workplaces, schools, homes, and communities. When addressed courageously and managed wisely, conflict can be a catalyst for positive transformation of relationships. These three celebrations in October raise awareness of strategies that can be used to peacefully navigate conflict and elevate the work of professionals committed to promoting peaceful means to resolving conflicts. They also remind us that more than a single day or week, the world is embracing conflict resolution!

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Five Simple Questions That Destabilize Barriers to Conflict Resolution

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Five Simple Questions That Destabilize Barriers to Conflict Resolution

Recently, my conflict resolution skills were tested in my personal life. For someone who loves to help others work through their conflict, I felt lost. After attempting to talk and listen to the other parties involved, it was clear that progress was not on the horizon. When conflict is personal, it is easy for even the most seasoned mediators to forget how to apply what we use in our daily practice to develop a satisfactory resolution. I realized that the logical thing to do was draw on my mediation skills. Upon this realization, I turned my attention to five questions that I commonly use in my practice and when coaching our mediators.

 

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