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. In the process, we often discover that we are more in agreement than disagreement. Sometimes, however, our respectful exchange of information and ideas serves to clarify some genuine disagreements, allowing us to better define our shared problem.
Conflict resolution is, therefore, the process of solving the problem in a mutually satisfying way.
At the heart of conflict resolution is problem solving. There are many different problem solving processes, some with acronyms to remind us of the steps. There are some advantages to learning a variety of processes and, through comparison, adapting and developing the individualized approach which works best. Essentially, however, each problem solving process includes steps for defining the problem, developing courses of action, considering the consequences of each course of action, and developing an implementation plan for the optimal solution. The problem solving model used by the Missouri Center for Safe Schools is the SOCS model, short for Socrates.