Conflict is a natural part of life. It is a normal outcome of human interaction in the face of unlimited wants and limited resources. Conflict is not necessarily good or bad. Its absence does not ensure happiness or success. Recognizing, accepting, and understanding different perceptions is important for successful management of conflicts.
Effective communication is central to the constructive management of conflict.
Recognition of the psychological and social roles of the participants is necessary for effective management of conflict. These roles, which are learned through social interaction, can be revised over time. Face-saving and reciprocity are important to humans. For conflict to be managed successfully, people must perceive that they got something from the exchange and that they were not unilaterally at fault. People change, memories change, and relationships change over time.