The Nature of Conflict 1 / 6

A conflict can have both positive and negative impact on an organisation.

A constructive conflict is considered positive and beneficial to the organisation. An advantage of a constructive conflict is that it can release hostile feelings.

A destructive conflict is negative and  tends to cause alienation between groups and individuals.

According to Daft, a destructive conflict diverts energy from organisational goals towards conflict, reduces coordination amongst groups, etc.

Symptoms of a conflict:

  1. Hostility and jealousy between groups.

  2. Poor communication.

  3. Widespread frustration and dissatisfaction.