- Adaptivity, Culture and Conflict Landscape: Conflict tendencies at work in US, South Korea and China
This research examines how cultural values of power distance, cooperation-competition and individualism-collectivism affect conflict management at work. Based on previous theory and research (Coleman, Kugler, Mitchinson, Chung and Musallam, 2011), we propose that three fundamental aspects of social relations – power distance, type of interdependence (cooperation-competition) and degree of interdependence (individualism-collectivism)- interact to situate parties psychologically in different regions of a conflict stimulus field (Kelley, 1997), and that these differences tend to afford five distinct psychological orientations to conflict: benevolence, dominance, support, appeasement and autonomy. There are two objectives of this study. First, we aim to explore the relationship between power distance, cooperation-competition, individualism-collectivism and conflict orientations in the US, South Korea and China. Second, we examine if more adaptive orientations (flexible, less chronic approaches) to conflict is related to satisfaction with conflict processes and job satisfaction at work. The theory, methods and results of the study will be presented at IACM.
- Leadership Competencies for Navigating Complex, Difficult Conflicts: Validation of an Assessment Using a Computer-Based Simulation
In this project we initiated a preliminary investigation of the leadership competencies that are associated with constructive versus destructive patterns of decision making for individuals attempting to ameliorate a complex protracted conflict situation. From February through May we recruited 80 participants who were first asked to complete an online questionnaire assessing complexity competencies such as behavioral complexity, tolerance for ambiguity and consideration for future consequences. Participants then visited the lab, where they were assessed for integrative complexity before playing a simulation game - playing the role of a leader, attempting to navigate a sustainable resolution to long-term intractable conflict. Data collection has concluded, but analysis is ongoing. Results from this study will inform the design of future studies of the phenomena, as well as the creation of an assessment tool that could be used for leadership training in organizational and other settings.
- Study on Mindtypes and Framing for Peacebuilding in the Middle East
Previous research (Coleman et al. 2013) using Rule Development Experimentation identified two distinct mindtypes in both Israeli and Palestinian communities. In this follow up study, we seek to better understand these mindtypes by determining whether they predict future peacebuilding efforts. This study will investigate the importance of mindtype fit and the framing of peacebuilding activities for motivating constructive engagement in such activities in the Middle East. We hypothesize that a strong fit between these two variables could lead to increased engagement in peacebuilding activities and efforts.
- Putting the Peaces Together: Introducing a Situated Model of Mediation
Research on conflict mediation presents a scattered, piecemeal understanding of what constitutes effective mediation and how to achieve it. This state only exacerbates the widening gap between research and practice in the field. This paper presents the findings of a study of experienced mediators aimed at identifying the most basic factors in mediation that determine differences in mediation behaviors, processes and outcomes. We build on these findings to present a situated model of mediation, which locates differences in mediation dynamics within the context of a “stimulus field” composed of four fundamental dimensions of conflict mediation. Implications of the model for mediation research are discussed.
- Critical Approaches to Studying Peace: Definitions, Measures, and Empirical Dilemmas
While recent advances have been made to measure peace, it is clear that there remain several key challenges that must be addressed. There is as yet no satisfactory definition of the concept that both captures and makes operationalizable the concept of peace. Likewise there is as yet little coherence in the indicators that can be used to observe peace. In this symposium we will explore the methodological, operational, and empirical challenges associated with measuring and observing peace with the hope of galvanizing energy toward new empirical research to refine our understanding of peace. In so doing, we will bring new light to an otherwise understudied aspect of peace and conflict research – the essential parameters of peace. This in turn can provide new insights into overcoming the major policy and development challenges to a peace.
- Adaptivity in Cultural Conflict Tool (ACCT): Measuring Behavioral Flexibility in Responses to Cultural Indicators
The value of effective intercultural communication has become increasingly evident and appreciated in both the laboratory and in the field. There are many assessment tools designed to provide feedback to conflict professionals on their values, assumptions, and general tendencies in intercultural conflicts and how they may improve upon their competencies in various cultural settings. While these tools provide an essential and critical service, three significant limitations exist among the currently available and most widely used assessments. These limitations are: (1) the focus on cultural differences rather than on cultural adaptation, (2) the reliance on self-report, and (3) the static approach to measurement rather a dynamic perspective. Our aim is to fill this gap with a new instrument designed to address these concerns and to offer a new framework for intercultural conflict resolution training.