Topic > Intergroup Conflict Essay - 723

Latent conflict is the first stage in which potentially incompatible goals and interdependent relationships occur between parties. At this stage perhaps the reason for the conflict is hidden. In the perceived conflict phase, the parties become aware that incompatibility and interdependence are occurring. In the third stage, that of felt conflict, the parties begin to formulate plans for how to manage the conflict and determine what is and is not acceptable. During the manifest conflict phase, parties begin to express behavior that could be considered hostile. According to Sajith (2010), “some expressions of hostile behavior are lack of coordination, decreased interaction, and disruption of work flow” to name a few examples. The final phase is the one following the conflict. “The consequences of a conflict are not distinct situations, with a clear beginning and end. If the conflict is truly resolved with sanctions from all parties, the foundation for a more cooperative relationship can be laid” (Sajith, 2010). It is important to know that individuals may not go through the five stages of organizational conflict