How can you use the Conflict Style Inventory to evaluate your conflict resolution strategies?

2 What are the five conflict styles?

The dual concern model suggests that people have different levels of concern for their own interests and the interests of others when they face conflict. This model is the basis of the five conflict styles, which include competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating. Competing involves having a high concern for your own interests and a low concern for the interests of others, while collaborating involves having a high concern for both. Compromising involves having a moderate concern for both, avoiding involves having a low concern for both, and accommodating involves having a low concern for your own interests and a high concern for the interests of others.

3 How can you interpret your CSI results?

Your CSI results can help you understand your strengths and weaknesses as a conflict resolver, as well as your tendencies and preferences in different situations. There is no right or wrong conflict style, as each one has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the context and the relationship. However, some styles may be more effective or appropriate than others depending on the factors such as the importance of the issue, the urgency of the situation, the power balance between the parties, and the potential impact on the relationship. To interpret your CSI results, you can compare your scores for each style and see which one is dominant, moderate, or low. You can also reflect on how your style affects your outcomes and emotions in conflict situations, and how it aligns with your values and goals.

4 How can you adapt your conflict style?

Your conflict style may reflect your personality, preferences, and habits, but it is not set in stone. To adapt your conflict style to different situations and people, you should be aware of your own and others' conflict styles, open to different perspectives and needs, flexible and creative, and respectful and constructive. Recognize the cues and patterns that indicate your and others' preferred styles, try to understand the other party's point of view, explore different options that may satisfy both parties' needs, communicate your thoughts and feelings clearly without personal attacks or criticism, and focus on the problem rather than the person. Being willing to adjust your style or approach if needed can help you reach common ground and mutual benefits.

5 How can you improve your conflict resolution skills?

Using the CSI can help you evaluate your conflict resolution strategies, but it is not enough to improve them. To refine your skills, you must practice and apply your skills in real conflict situations and learn from your experiences and feedback. You can seek feedback and coaching from those involved or observing the conflict, as well as mentors who are experienced in conflict resolution. Additionally, you can observe how others handle conflict situations, read articles or watch videos that offer tips and examples, and practice in low-stakes or simulated conflict situations. You can also use self-reflection tools to record your thoughts, feelings, and actions in conflict situations and evaluate your performance and outcomes.