Ways to deal with conflict
Conflict can happen in any situation. Learning how to deal with it well can keep your relationships on track.
Conflict is a part of life
We all see and think about the world in different ways – this can lead to different opinions about the exact same thing
- Conflict can make some people feel sad, upset or scared, while others may feel energised and excited by conflict
- Conflict can affect our bodies and might cause tension in our muscles, stop us feeling hungry or even cause headaches
- Sometimes conflict doesn’t fade away on its own and needs to be worked at so that solutions can be found
What can lead to conflict?
The way we express our ideas, needs and opinions can lead to conflict with others and vice versa.
Conflict may come up at school, home, work or with friends because:
- Ideas, opinions or concerns are not being heard
- You or others feel that you aren’t being treated fairly
- Expectations are not being met
- There is a difference in personalities or communication styles
- There is a difference in strongly held beliefs or opinions
How to deal with conflict
The best way to deal with conflict is to talk to the other people involved and try to work things out.
Start by trying these tips:
Give yourself time and space to calm down if you feel angry
Try to understand your own feelings about what has happened
Arrange a private place and time that is good for everyone to talk
Keep an open mind and take turns listening to each other
Use “I” sentences and be specific eg. “I was upset when…”
Show you’re listening through eye contact, nodding and open body language
Showing you understand the other person can help them be more open
Talk about ways to solve the issue or problem
“Learning how to deal with conflict in a positive way is a skill that lasts a lifetime.” – Yvonne, Kids Helpline Counsellor
Navigating toxic relationships online
We've partnered with PROJECT ROCKIT to help you know what to say or do when friendships start to turn toxic.
"An otherwise perfectly healthy friendship can have toxic behaviour in it... That doesn't mean the whole relationship is toxic – just that specific behaviour. I've got some mates and we like to joke around online. Recently, it's actually become really derogatory towards girls in my year level and I'm not ok with it. So what can I do to stop it?"
Dealing with conflict – why it’s worth it
Figuring out ways to deal with conflict can stop things from getting worse and helps you learn important skills for later in life.
Understanding ways to deal with conflict can help you to:
- Become a better communicator
- Get better at resolving conflicts early
- Feel like you have achieved something positive
- Be more understanding of other people’s needs
- Become more confident at dealing with hard situations
- Learn ways to avoid conflict starting in the first place
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