Conflict avoidance refers to a set of behaviors aimed at preventing or minimizing disagreement with another person. These behaviors can occur before the conflict emerges (e.g., avoiding certain topics, changing the subject) or after the conflict has been expressed (e.g., withholding disagreement, withdrawing from the conversation, giving in). Conflict avoidance can be employed as a temporary measure within a specific situation or as a more permanent approach, such as establishing "taboo topics" or exiting a relationship.[1] Although conflict avoidance can exist in any interpersonal relationship, it has been studied most closely in the contexts of family and work relationships. Consequently, research on conflict avoidance spans various disciplines including: clinical psychology, social psychology, organizational behavior, communication studies, and family studies.
Scholars use the term "conflict avoidance" to characterize specific behaviors as well as a broader conflict style. A conflict management style is an individual's preferred method for handling conflict. Those with an avoidant style tend to sidestep disagreement, postpone dealing with conflict, or withdraw. Traditionally, conflict avoidance has been considered a dysfunctional approach to managing conflict by researchers, clinicians, and the general public because it leaves issues unresolved and can lead to resentment.[2][3] However, studies on conflict avoidance have produced mixed results, identifying functional benefits such as strengthening relationships, reducing stress, and increasing productivity. The general consensus is that avoidance is neither inherently good nor bad for conflict management but depends on the specific relationship, topic, and context.[1]
- ^ a b Roloff, Michael E.; Liu, Esther (2016). "Conflict Avoidance". In Berger, Charles R.; Roloff, Michael E.; Wilson, Steve R.; Solomon, Denise (eds.). The International Encyclopedia of Interpersonal Communication. The Wiley Blackwell-ICA international encyclopedias of communication. Hoboken: Wiley Blackwell. pp. 1–9. doi:10.1002/9781118540190.wbeic020. ISBN 978-1-118-30605-5.
- ^ Tjosvold, Deon; Sun, Haifa F. (2002-01-01). "Understanding Conflict Avoidance: Relationship, Motivations, Actions, and Consequences". International Journal of Conflict Management. 13 (2): 142–164. doi:10.1108/eb022872. ISSN 1044-4068.
- ^ Caughlin, John P.; Hardesty, Jennifer L.; Middleton, Ashley V. (2012-01-20). Noller, Patricia; Karantzas, Gery C. (eds.). The Wiley-Blackwell Handbook of Couples and Family Relationships (1 ed.). Wiley. pp. 115–128. doi:10.1002/9781444354119. ISBN 978-1-4443-3450-0.