15-20 minutes

PURPOSE

To help participants recognize that there are distinct differences in conflict styles and that being flexible and respecting others might help in resolving conflict

EQUIPMENT & MATERIAL

Posters prepared ahead with either pictures or names of the four animals in this activity and a one-sentence description of an appropriate style that each animal might represent (see Trainer’s Notes)

PROCEDURE

1. Place the posters in various areas of the room.
2. Ask participants to walk around the room and stand beside the poster that most represents the way they deal with conflict.
3. Have the people at each poster discuss what is good about dealing with conflict in that way, when it is most appropriate, and what they think they can accomplish with that style.
4. Ask them to discuss any problems the style might cause, when it is least appropriate to use, and what can be lost by using it.
5. Reconvene and have them summarize the advantages and disadvantages of the various styles. Continue by discussing how to deal with others who have different styles.

DEBRIEF

This activity addresses four major conflict styles (as described in the Trainer’s Notes).

Conflicts are often exacerbated by differences in styles. It is not always necessary for people to give up their natural styles in order to resolve conflict. Some forms of accommodation are possible. Most important are respecting differences and turning them into a positive force for resolution.

TRAINER’S NOTES

Prepare four posters with either the pictures or the names of the following animals as well as the phrases that are in parentheses, and briefly describe the styles:

Bunny Rabbit (escape when you have the chance)
This represents Avoidance.

Pit Bull (winning is the only thing)
This represents Competition.

Worker Bee (act for the good of the group)
This represents Cooperation.

Chameleon (willing to change to blend in)
This represents Adaptation.

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