Conflict in Organizations

Conflict is a natural occurrence among individuals and social groups and may present in both healthy and unhealthy ways. Conflict in organizations is a form of tension that manifests when individuals or groups perceive differences in beliefs, values, norms, and goals. Tension remains until the individual, or those engaged in the conflict, reaches some form of resolution. Among various types of organizations, institutions of higher education are particularly ripe for workplace conflict given their various bureaucratic and governance structures. Complex governance structures and bureaucratic procedures set the stage for disagreements among students, staff, faculty, administrators, and stakeholders. Issues and trigger points for potential conflict are often those surrounding identity, power, and resources.

The potential for conflict in institutions of higher education is high given the persistent ...