Conflict Management in the Pygmy Culture

The way people behave within conflict is a strong indicator of whether peaceful resolution is a possible outcome of conflict management (Eunson, 2007). Conflict management is defined as the process which focuses on the behaviour, relationships and context of conflict in order to create and maintain stable communication between those in conflict (Jeong, 2010). It is argued that peaceful resolutions are found when all parities involved in the conflict have had their individual outcomes satisfied (REF). People have the choice to position themselves with the right intention so everyone has the opportunity to achieve his or her personal outcomes (Rognes & Schei, 2010). Individuals who approach conflict with a willingness to see the situation from the other person’s perspective can effectively manage conflicts towards a resolution (Rognes & Schei, 2010; Tezer, 1999). If an individual is willing to use empathy to guide their approach to engaging with conflict they will begin the process of finding mutually beneficial outcomes (Rognes & Schei, 2010; Cornelius & Faire 2011). Firstly, in order to analyse fundamental behaviours within conflicts key approaches are identified by discussing three conflict behaviour models to better understand the nature of behaviour and its influences on conflict. Secondly, an integrative approach to conflict is discussed as a productive approach to conflict management. Thirdly, specific behaviours that sit within the integrative model are discussed along with discussion on unhelpful behaviours contrary to the integrative model. An affirmation of the integrative approach to conflict management discussion is undertaken by reviewing conflict management within traditional African Pygmy colonies. The way people per...

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