By Matthew McConathy/ reporter
Conversation during conflict can help people understand others’ viewpoints.
TR Campus’ center of Leadership Development group discussed with students Feb. 16 the importance of understanding others’ viewpoints and dealing with conflict in leadership positions.
Leadership member David Phillips talked with students about the solutions for conflict people can have.
Five levels of conflict were discussed: Differences, misunderstanding, disagreements, discord and polarization. Students discussed how the main key to overcoming conflict is communication. Interpreting someone’s tone can cause conflict, especially on social media.
Students discussed five techniques in solving conflict in a leadership environment: suggest the words to use, relate emotions, analyze the problem, identify what others disagree with and brainstorm ideas while working together. Use of suggestive words during conflict helps to let the person understand a viewpoint.
Phillips emphasized that students should make solutions out of conflict and grow from it.
TR student Tommy Singer learned and agreed.
“Conflict is a good thing because you learn and manage yourself,” he said.
Phillips spoke about a technique called “Go to the Balcony.” It teaches one to take a detached and distant view of the person or situation when dealing with difficult conflicts. This is similar to someone watching a stage performance from a balcony. The viewer can see the actor and his actions and can understand why, but the viewer is not reacting to them. It gives way to make anger subside, and the person can rationally think without stepping out of line.
TR student Damaris Garcia said the discussion helped.
“When I have a misunderstanding in a conflict, I ignore it,” she said. “But do something through other people. Speak to people who can influence the situation better.”
Phillips said the group learned useful skills.
“The best way to learn is to teach,” he said. “The more students build a resume in leadership, the more they can get scholarships and get accepted into four-year universities.”
