Cross Cultural differences in Approaches to Conflict

Successful conflict resolution comprises three aspects

Desire and necessity for the conflict to be resolved
Understanding of possible barriers to the resolution of the conflict
The choice of method of conflict resolution.

1. Desire and necessity for the conflict to be resolved

To resolve cross-cultural conflicts or misunderstandings, community service and disability service workers need to be committed to resolving potential conflicts and take responsibility for bridging the cultural gaps.

They must:

Have self-awareness of their own cultural practice, including prejudice, stereotyping and bias
Understand various cultural factors contributing to cultural differences
Be sensitive and appreciate a migrant’s migration experience
Have a good knowledge of, and skills in, communication
Be able to work with interpreters
Be willing to accept and appreciate other cultures.

2. Understanding of possible resistances

During the conflict resolution process, you might experience internal resistance to recognition of problems or problem-solving.

This resistance may take the form of:

Resistance to examining your own values
Resistance to acknowledging your own cultural stereotyping or bias
Denial of the existence of conflict
Tendency to blame others for causing problems
Looking for the right time to deal with conflicts.
You must take prime responsibility for exploring the barriers and minimising this resistance to conflict resolution.

3. Methods of conflict resolution

Different people might accept different conflict resolution methods, so it is important to use methods or approaches that are suitable to all parties and enlist the help of acceptable people in resolving cross-cultural conflicts.

To resolve conflicts arising from cultural differences, you need to:

Identify the similarity and differences between your cultural practice and those of the person in conflict with you
Acknowledge the differences and attempt to balance the interests of both parties.