COM312 Top Predicted Questions and Correct Answers

Conflict - an expressed struggle between at least two interdependent parties who perceive incompatible goals, scarce resources, and interference from others in achieving their goals Expressed struggle - communication is central to conflict Interdependence - a person who is not dependent on another Incompatible goals - goals have different levels; conflict arises when wants/goals are different Scarce resources - assure the other that the resources aren't scarce Interference - when someone or something gets in the way of our goals How does perception influence conflict? - -Influences how we understand/respond to the world -Influences relationship choices -Drives consumptions Influences what is valuable Family of Origin - socializes us into constructive/destructive ways of handling conflict and continues on into romantic relationships and later handled Where are people lacking? - Lack the skills and knowledge to handle conflict. A lot of energy wasted on emotions Escalatory Spiral - Relationship continues to circle around to more and more damaging ends; interaction becomes self-perpuating Spiral of negativity - Results when conflict continues unbated and feeds off itself (continuing escalatory spiral) Characteristics of escalatory spiral - Misunderstanding, discord, and destruction Avoidance spirals - Demonstrate covert expression Basic dynamics of avoidance spirals - - Less direct interaction - active avoidance - reduction of dependence - harboring of resentment/disappointment - complaining to third persons