As part of this course, we were asked to complete a  conflict resolution questionnaire and reflect on our findings.

My predominant approach to managing conflict is ‘honesty and openness.’

This matches how I think about myself in that I do believe there is a ‘truth.’ There are some things that are right and wrong that transcend all cultures, times, and places (as well as some things that are right or wrong based on our here and now). I would hold these things higher than myself and others and I would not be willing to compromise on those things. Seeing as how many of these morals stem from a ‘treat others how you want to be treated,’ it does not surprise me that my style of conflict resolution also includes finding a solution that is ‘honest and satisfactory for both sides.’ Part of treating others the way I want to be treated would include trying to understand the other person’s frustrations and working with the other person to find a satisfactory solution. I also need to be sure that I am growing in my awareness of my weaknesses and to be ready to admit where I have not lived up to my own standards!