How can you address conflicts in peer support groups during critical incident stress management?

1 Recognize the signs of conflict

Conflict can present itself in many forms, such as verbal arguments, passive-aggressive behavior, withdrawal, or resentment. It is important to be vigilant for the signs of conflict and address it before it intensifies or impacts the group dynamics. Some warning signs of conflict are raised voices, negative body language, lack of participation, the formation of cliques, alliances, or subgroups, as well as complaints, rumors, or gossip. Taking early action can prevent the situation from escalating.

2 Facilitate open communication

Poor communication is a major cause of conflict, which can be avoided or resolved through open and respectful communication among group members. Establishing clear ground rules and expectations, encouraging active listening and empathy, asking open-ended questions and paraphrasing responses, acknowledging different viewpoints and experiences, providing constructive feedback and praise, and avoiding blame, criticism, or judgment are all strategies to improve communication.

3 Manage emotions and stress

Conflict can trigger strong emotions and stress, which can impair rational thinking and problem-solving. To address conflict effectively, you should help group members manage their emotions and stress. Taking deep breaths, relaxing muscles, or meditating can help to cope with intense feelings. Expressing feelings in a calm and assertive manner is also beneficial, as is seeking support from peers, supervisors, or counselors. Positive self-talk and affirmations can also be helpful, as well as engaging in self-care and wellness activities.

4 Seek resolution and collaboration

The ultimate goal of addressing conflict is to reach a resolution that satisfies the needs and interests of all parties involved. To achieve this, collaboration and compromise should be sought among group members. Identifying the source and impact of the conflict, exploring possible solutions and alternatives, evaluating the pros and cons of each option, negotiating and agreeing on a mutually acceptable outcome, implementing and monitoring the action plan, and following up and providing feedback are all steps that can help facilitate resolution and collaboration.

5 Refer to external resources

Sometimes, conflict may be too complex, intense, or persistent to be handled within the group. In such cases, you should refer group members to external resources for additional support and guidance. This could include peer support coordinators or supervisors, CISM team members or consultants, mental health professionals or counselors, employee assistance programs or wellness services, and mediators or arbitrators. Conflict is an unavoidable part of any group setting, however it can be managed successfully with the correct skills and strategies. By implementing these tips, you can foster a positive and productive peer support group that can help emergency responders manage critical incident stress.