This is one reason why young children often react aggressively, hitting or pushing the other child, when faced with a conflict. Adults, in comparison, have the ability to consider various responses and weigh the consequences of each. Successful interpersonal problem solving results in win-win solutions where all parties involved in a conflict are satisfied with the resolution. Each positive resolution to a conflict is a learning experience that lays a foundation for mature and insightful problem solving in the future. Steps in Problem Solving When a conflict occurs, the first step is to refrain from action.
Children often act impulsively before accurately assessing the entire situation.
Slowing down enables the parties to assess the other person s feelings and to come up with possible solutions. Assess the situation Attempt to determine how the other person is feeling by looking at his facial expression and body language. Determine what each camper desires as an outcome. Brainstorm Solutions Have each camper think of as may ways to reach the desired goal as possible. The more ideas, the more possibilities for resolution.