Changing the Conversation

December 1, 2014
Conflict generally leads to endless cycles of attack, counterattack, and more conflict as we fail to get to the root of the underlying problems. Conflict mediator Caspersen offers 17 principles of conflict resolution in a highly graphic book that juxtaposes typical reactions and suggested alternatives that will ease tension and lead to resolution. The reader is encouraged to see conflict as a moment of opportunity. Instead of hearing an attack, which makes you ignore additional information that may be offered, listen for what is behind the words. Instead of acting on assumptions, test them. Instead of adopting a rigid stance, develop curiosity. Instead of ignoring the possibility of future conflict, expect and plan for future conflict, including a more productive response. Caspersen offers examples of conflict from arenas as varied as home, school, and work as well as exercises to help resolve frictions. The objective is to facilitate listening and speaking, acknowledge emotions, and look for ways forward out of conflict.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)