Conflict Resolution - hdbk12020019

DOE-HDBK-1202-97

develop the ability to work together effectively. At the organizational level, larger

organizational units learn better ways to interact.

The interaction between teams is also an appropriate focus of team building. This

interaction, and the quality of communication within the larger organizational units as a

whole, are important dimensions of team performance. It is important that this broader

context not be neglected in the teamwork training. Individual teams need to understand the

impact their performance has on other teams and the organization as a whole.

Developing effective teamwork needs support from the larger organization of which the

particular group is a part. Patterns of work used by larger organizational units will have a

significant impact on their component parts. For example, if the larger unit fails to consider

options before selecting a given alternative, it may be more difficult for a subordinate team

to adapt that as their own work practice.

2.6 Conflict Resolution

When not handled properly, conflict can severely hamper the ability of the team to complete

assigned tasks successfully, especially during stressful emergency situations. The ability of

team members to resolve conflict situations during both normal and abnormal conditions

should be developed and maintained to enable team personnel to:

Identify common misconceptions about conflict and describe how these

misconceptions such as "personality difficulties" or challenging leadership

decisions inhibit conflict resolution

Describe how controversies, conflicts of interest, and conflicts related to

stress affect the work team

Achieve constructive conflict by applying techniques such as communicating

information accurately, having a supportive climate, sharing a common set of

values, and establishing and adhering to a common set of rules about conflict

Assess situations that may result in destructive conflict such as physical

conflicts and conflict related to drugs or alcohol, and take actions necessary

to eliminate the adverse consequences