Many people have a negative concept of conflict based on their experience. Conflict, however, is a natural condition which occurs throughout all of our lives.
Conflict is a key ingredient in learning and change.
Therefore, conflict presents positive potential. Interpersonal conflict is defined here as a situation in which the interests of two or more parties are perceived to be mutually exclusive. A great deal of conflict grows out of perceptual difference, which results from our differing personalities, cultures, and experiences. Conflict based only on differences in perception can be resolved with time and effective communication. If we can explain in a nonconfrontational way our own perceptions and can listen respectfully to each other, we will often discover that we can learn from the other person's perspective.