Conflict Resolution StrategiesConflict has long been seen as negative and is usually associated with things as trivial as an argument for something as extreme as war, and is rarely considered beneficial. However, in a team environment, conflict can be very beneficial if recognized early and managed properly and can improve team performance as well as relationships between team members. Conflicts are inevitable when humans interact, because not everyone shares the same beliefs, values, opinions, levels. education, expertise on a given subject and social or economic background, to name a few. Most of us try to avoid conflict as much as possible because it makes us uncomfortable. To feel comfortable with it, or at least to be able to manage it when it arises, you have to understand it. Let's start by defining conflict. According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, conflict can be defined as follows: "a: competitive or opposing action of incompatibles: antagonistic state or action (such as divergent ideas, interests, or people) b: mental struggle resulting from incompatible or opposing external or internal needs, drives, wishes or demands." (Merriam-Webster 2006) Conflict can arise when a person feels like their intellect, values, credibility, or beliefs are being challenged. To be an effective part of a team, understand that conflict will arise and that members will need to be able to handle that as part of their responsibility to the team and to ourselves. Managing conflict early on can be very beneficial for the team to achieve its goals and can greatly improve relationships between team members. Some teams choose to ignore conflicts when they arise. They may view it as only negative and be afraid of confusing it ... middle of paper ... within the team, it may be appropriate to avoid or postpone it. (Porter, 2003)Now that we have defined conflict, examined the different reasons why conflict occurs and its positive and negative aspects, as well as some strategies for managing conflict, we can better understand the potential causes and signs of conflict. 'a conflict. As a result, we can recognize and manage conflict effectively to have a positive and beneficial effect on team performance. ReferencesDeJanasz, Dowd, Schneider, (2001). Interpersonal skills in organizations. New York: McGraw-Hill Companies. McNamara, P (2003.08). Conflict resolution strategies.OfficePro Magazine, Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, 2006Porter, S (2003). Conflict management in learning teams. University of Phoenix. DeJanasz, Dowd, Schneider, (2001). Interpersonal skills in organizations.New York: Mcgraw-Hill Companies.