Competence in Interpersonal Conflict

This text demonstrates the uses of competent communication in interpersonal conflict using current research to show effective and appropriate conflict management. The first two chapters lay out a conceptual foundation for understanding interpersonal conflict. The book then describes the nature of conflict messages, how different people define and react to conflict and the consequences, both positive and negative, of conflict interactions. Chapters 7-10, each written by well respected scholars, explore conflict in four unique settings. The text concludes with a look at the conflicts students will face in their lives and the need to adopt an ethical stance in managing conflict.