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4.2 Triggers

4.2 Instructions: Instructions: Review the following triggers and note any keywords that resonate with you—whether it's a person, thought, or event. Recognizing and understanding these triggers can be a crucial step toward resolving conflicts. Conflicts often arise from task-based or relational issues. Task-based conflicts tend to be productive, while relationship-based conflicts are usually destructive. However, conflicts are often complex and multifaceted, without a single identifiable source.



Here is a list of 75 reasons for conflict, categorized to help you identify and address unresolved issues:


Task-Related Causes


1. Competing goals

2. Incompatible interests

3. Differing principles

4. Incongruent values

5. Disagreement about strategy

6. Disagreement about execution

7. Diverse perspectives

8. Lack of focus

9. Unclear objectives

10. Poor planning

11. Missed deadlines


External Influences


12. Struggle for resources

13. Limited resources

14. A failing project

15. Win-lose scenarios

16. Disgruntled customers

17. Budget allocations

18. Lack of information

19. Interdependence

20. Ineffective processes


Emotional Triggers


21. Mixed feelings

22. Expectations

23. Prejudices

24. Perception of injustice

25. Jealousy

26. Retaliation

27. Anger

28. Nonverbal signals triggering "fight or flight"

29. Stress build-up

30. Burnout

31. Fear

32. Power dynamics

33. Harsh feedback

34. Feeling unappreciated

35. Lack of trust

36. Distrust

37. Dissatisfaction

38. Feeling judged

39. Being isolated


Behavioural Antecedents


40. Miscommunication

41. Risk-aversion

42. Self-centeredness

43. Sarcasm

44. Competitive culture

45. Competitive personality

46. Demeaning language

47. Patronizing language

48. Condescending language

49. Undermining expertise

50. Arrogance

51. Assumptions

52. Complacency

53. Hostility

54. Passive-aggressive behaviour

55. Avoiding conflict

56. Perfectionism

57. Inconsiderate behaviour

58. Abusing authority

59. Desire to be "right"

60. Overdependence on others

61. Blaming or pointing fingers

62. Power struggles

63. Interrupting

64. Accusing

65. Rudeness

66. Unreliable behaviour

67. Failing to share credit

68. Micromanaging

69. Incompetence

70. Complaining

71. Slow to adapt

72. Not walking the talk

73. Questioning others' motives

74. Assuming the worst of others

75. Assuming the best of self



Reflective Questions

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