POL2602
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 30 March 2026
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, 1.1 Relationship Conflicts
Relationship conflicts occur when tension arises between individuals due to negative
emotions, poor communication or repeated negative behaviour. In the scenario
provided, relationship conflicts may arise among team members because of personal
disagreements and interpersonal tensions that affect how they work together. When
members believe that personal relationships are influencing decisions within the
project team, they may begin to feel mistrust, frustration or resentment towards
certain colleagues. These negative emotions can damage teamwork and create
hostility within the group.
Poor communication can also contribute to relationship conflicts in this situation. For
example, if team members misunderstand each other’s intentions or fail to
communicate openly about project decisions, this can lead to suspicion and conflict.
Misconceptions or stereotypes about certain colleagues may also develop, causing
members to judge others unfairly. This can weaken cooperation and reduce trust
within the team.
Repetitive negative behaviour may further escalate relationship conflict. For
instance, if some members continuously dominate discussions, ignore others’
contributions or show disrespect during meetings, tensions will increase over time.
Relationship conflicts often create an environment where disagreements become
personal rather than task-focused, which can escalate into destructive conflict and
reduce team productivity. Managing these conflicts requires open communication,
respect and the willingness to address interpersonal issues constructively (POL2602
Study Guide, 2022).
1.2 Value Conflicts
Value conflicts arise when individuals have different beliefs, principles or priorities
that influence how they interpret situations and make decisions. Values shape
people’s understanding of what is right or wrong and what should be prioritised in a
particular situation. In the scenario, value conflicts may occur because team
Varsity Cube 2026 +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 30 March 2026
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, 1.1 Relationship Conflicts
Relationship conflicts occur when tension arises between individuals due to negative
emotions, poor communication or repeated negative behaviour. In the scenario
provided, relationship conflicts may arise among team members because of personal
disagreements and interpersonal tensions that affect how they work together. When
members believe that personal relationships are influencing decisions within the
project team, they may begin to feel mistrust, frustration or resentment towards
certain colleagues. These negative emotions can damage teamwork and create
hostility within the group.
Poor communication can also contribute to relationship conflicts in this situation. For
example, if team members misunderstand each other’s intentions or fail to
communicate openly about project decisions, this can lead to suspicion and conflict.
Misconceptions or stereotypes about certain colleagues may also develop, causing
members to judge others unfairly. This can weaken cooperation and reduce trust
within the team.
Repetitive negative behaviour may further escalate relationship conflict. For
instance, if some members continuously dominate discussions, ignore others’
contributions or show disrespect during meetings, tensions will increase over time.
Relationship conflicts often create an environment where disagreements become
personal rather than task-focused, which can escalate into destructive conflict and
reduce team productivity. Managing these conflicts requires open communication,
respect and the willingness to address interpersonal issues constructively (POL2602
Study Guide, 2022).
1.2 Value Conflicts
Value conflicts arise when individuals have different beliefs, principles or priorities
that influence how they interpret situations and make decisions. Values shape
people’s understanding of what is right or wrong and what should be prioritised in a
particular situation. In the scenario, value conflicts may occur because team
Varsity Cube 2026 +27 81 278 3372
