The conflict-positive organization : it depends upon us
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Journal of Organizational Behavior
Publication Date
1-1-2008
Volume
29
Issue
1
First Page
19
Last Page
28
Abstract
Although still widely assumed to be disruptive, conflict, when managed appropriately, has been found to make teamwork within and between organizations effective. However, organizational members often have competitive relationships and orientations to dealing with conflict that lead to conflict avoidance and escalation, approaches that sabotage decision-making and relational bonds. Conflict researchers have contributed to the bad reputation of conflict by confounding conflict and competition and suggesting that the kind of conflict, rather than its management, determines its outcomes. Studies in the West and East indicate that by developing cooperative relationships and the skills to discuss diverse views open-mindedly, organizations can empower managers and employees to use conflict to probe problems, create innovative solutions, learn from their experience, and enliven their relationships.
DOI
10.1002/job.473
Print ISSN
08943796
E-ISSN
10991379
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Tjosvold, D. (2008). The conflict-positive organization: It depends upon us. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 29(1), 19-28. doi: 10.1002/job.473