What are the most commonly used conflict diagnosis tools?

1 Thomas-Kilmann Instrument

The Thomas-Kilmann Instrument (TKI) is a self-assessment tool that measures your preferred style of handling conflict on two dimensions: assertiveness and cooperativeness. The TKI identifies five styles of conflict management: competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating. By taking the TKI, you can learn about your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each style in different contexts. The TKI can help you choose the most appropriate style for each conflict situation, as well as develop your flexibility and effectiveness.

2 Circle of Conflict

The Circle of Conflict is a visual tool that helps you understand the root causes of conflict by categorizing them into six elements: values, relationships, data, interests, structural, and external. The Circle of Conflict shows how these elements interact and influence each other, and how they can be addressed by different strategies. The Circle of Conflict can help you diagnose the core issues of conflict, as well as generate possible solutions that address the needs and concerns of all parties.

3 Conflict Dynamics Profile

The Conflict Dynamics Profile (CDP) is a feedback tool that assesses how you respond to conflict in terms of constructive and destructive behaviors. The CDP measures your frequency and intensity of using 14 behaviors, such as perspective taking, creating solutions, blaming, avoiding, and winning at all costs. The CDP also evaluates how others perceive your behaviors and how they affect your outcomes. The CDP can help you identify your patterns of behavior, as well as the triggers and consequences of your actions. The CDP can help you develop your awareness, skills, and strategies for managing conflict more effectively.

4 Interest-Based Relational Approach

The Interest-Based Relational Approach (IBRA) is a process tool that guides you through the steps of resolving conflict in a collaborative and respectful way. The IBRA is based on the principles of separating people from the problem, focusing on interests rather than positions, generating options for mutual gain, and using objective criteria for evaluation. The IBRA involves four stages: setting the scene, gathering information, agreeing on the criteria and options, and negotiating the outcome. The IBRA can help you build trust, communication, and creativity in conflict resolution.

5 Conflict Style Inventory

The Conflict Style Inventory (CSI) is a learning tool that helps you explore how you approach conflict in relation to two factors: concern for self and concern for others. The CSI identifies four styles of conflict: direct, avoidant, harmonizing, and compromising. The CSI also provides you with scenarios and exercises to practice and reflect on your style and its impact. The CSI can help you increase your self-awareness, empathy, and adaptability in conflict situations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?