3 questions

Conflict Management

What is usually the most effective first approach to managing conflict?

  • a.Physical restraint
  • b.Calm communication and de-escalation, using active listening and non-threatening body language
  • c.Shouting louder than the other person
  • d.Threatening the person with the police

De-escalation through calm, respectful communication resolves most conflict without force. Active listening, an open posture and a controlled tone help reduce a person's anger. Physical intervention is only ever a last resort.

Conflict Management

Research on communication suggests that when dealing with an angry person, a great deal of the message is carried by:

  • a.The exact words only
  • b.Written notices
  • c.Non-verbal signals such as body language, facial expression and tone of voice
  • d.The colour of your uniform

Much of face-to-face communication is non-verbal. Your body language, facial expression and tone can calm or inflame a situation, so keeping them open, calm and non-threatening is a key conflict-management skill.

Conflict Management

Keeping a safe distance (a reaction gap) from a potentially aggressive person mainly helps to:

  • a.Look intimidating
  • b.Block the exit
  • c.Start a fight
  • d.Give you time and space to react safely and shows you are not being threatening

Maintaining a reaction gap gives you time to assess and respond if the person becomes aggressive, and a non-threatening distance is less likely to provoke them. It is a core personal-safety principle.

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