You have been reading about dealing with conflict in group. You viewed conflict in the Corey et al. DVD and discussed the leader’s role in conflict in the workbook. Reflect on your readings from Jacobs et al., Forsyth, and the Corey et al. workbook and discuss your insights as you addressed the section of “Challenges Facing Group Leaders” in your workbook. Make sure to properly cite your sources and reference your citations at the end.
Dealing with conflict in a group setting can be a challenging task for leaders. Conflict is a natural part of group dynamics and can arise due to various reasons including differences in opinions, values, and goals among group members. In order to effectively address and manage conflict, leaders need to be aware of the challenges they may face.
The readings by Jacobs et al. (2013) and Forsyth (2018) offer valuable insights into the challenges that group leaders may encounter when dealing with conflict. Jacobs et al. highlight the importance of trust and open communication within a group, as lack of trust and poor communication can easily exacerbate conflicts. Additionally, Forsyth discusses the role of power and its influence on conflict dynamics within a group. These readings provide a foundation for understanding the challenges facing group leaders when dealing with conflict.
Reflecting on the section of “Challenges Facing Group Leaders” in the Corey et al. workbook, several insights can be drawn. One of the primary challenges for group leaders in addressing conflict is the need to maintain neutrality and fairness. Leaders should avoid taking sides or favoring certain individuals, as this can further escalate the conflict and undermine their credibility as a neutral mediator. Instead, leaders should strive to create an atmosphere where all group members feel heard and respected.
Another challenge for group leaders is managing the emotions that arise during conflict. Emotions can run high in conflict situations, and leaders need to be able to effectively handle and channel these emotions towards productive resolution. Corey et al. suggest that leaders should encourage group members to express their emotions in a constructive manner, while also facilitating a calm and respectful environment. This requires leaders to be skilled in emotional intelligence and to possess the ability to regulate their own emotions as well.
Furthermore, the Corey et al. workbook emphasizes the importance of identifying underlying issues that may contribute to conflict. Often, conflicts in a group setting are symptoms of deeper concerns or unaddressed needs. Leaders need to be able to identify these underlying issues and address them appropriately. This can involve active listening, empathy, and skillful questioning to uncover the root causes of conflict. By addressing the underlying issues, leaders can work towards long-term resolution rather than simply addressing the surface-level conflict.
Additionally, the Corey et al. workbook stresses the need for leaders to have a clear understanding of their own values and biases. Leaders should be aware of how their personal characteristics and beliefs may influence their perception of conflict and their approach to resolving it. By recognizing and reflecting on their own biases, leaders can avoid engaging in behaviors that may compromise their ability to effectively address conflict impartially.
In conclusion, dealing with conflict in a group setting poses several challenges for leaders. By maintaining neutrality, managing emotions, identifying underlying issues, and being aware of their own biases, leaders can navigate these challenges and work towards resolving conflicts in a productive and respectful manner. The readings by Jacobs et al., Forsyth, and the Corey et al. workbook provide valuable insights into these challenges, offering guidance for leaders seeking to effectively address conflict in their groups.
References:
Corey, M. S., Corey, G., & Corey, C. (2014). Groups: Process and practice (9th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Forsyth, D. R. (2018). Group dynamics (7th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Jacobs, E. E., Schimmel, C. J., Masson, R. L., & Harvill, R. L. (2013). Group counseling: Strategies and skills
(8th ed.). Cengage Learning.
