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Conflict Management Process

There are times when interpersonal conflicts can have serious negative consequences on our health and well-being.

We help you resolve conflicts informally; however, if further intervention is required, we will walk you through a formal resolution process. 

To work toward resolving conflict in a way that feels meaningful to you, our office will: 

How you deal with this conflict can make all the difference. 

How We Can Help

Contact our office by email if you: 

  • have difficulty getting along with another student that is significantly affecting you
  • are experiencing bullying, whether online or in-person
  • have challenges interacting with an instructor that is negatively impacting your learning environment

While our office provides a broad range of support services, the OHRCM will not:

  • speak on behalf of the university;
  • interfere with appropriate performance management or evaluation;
  • take action without your consent (unless safety is an issue);
  • provide support/services to non-Laurier community members; or
  • advocate for a particular individual.

Contact us if you would like to schedule an initial meeting or request more information.

Resolution Routes

If your conflict remains unresolved or you require additional support after addressing the conflict informally, the OHRCM can assist in determining the most effective route toward resolution.

Resolution will be co-created by everyone involved.

Confidential Meeting

When you email our office, we will reach out to schedule a confidential meeting to discuss the nature of your conflict and consider next steps. You’ll be given the opportunity to:

  • review the issues and discuss your preferred outcome;
  • discuss options available to resolve the conflict;
  • receive guidance on preparing for a difficult conversation;
  • explore the value of mediation or a facilitated conversation; and
  • consider referral options and other support services.

Individual and Group Support

When working to resolve conflict through individual and group support, our office will:

  • Listen and consider the perspective of all those involved.
  • Respectfully treat everyone involved with a positive regard.
  • Seek to understand the needs of all parties.

Addressing Conflict 

Conflict is a regular part of our lives, but when it becomes unmanageable, our office is here to help. Conflicts can occur in circumstances where there are:

  • opposing opinions, perspectives or values;
  • intense emotional responses to differences; or
  • high stakes issues requiring action or decision-making.

Conflict can create strong emotions that may negatively impact a relationship if expressed in an unhealthy manner. Those same emotions can also damage our overall wellbeing if ignored or suppressed.

When experiencing conflict we may not feel in control. How we address conflict however, is something we can control.

Tips for Resolving Conflict

There’s no doubt that addressing conflict is challenging. Well-managed conflict though, can create positive working and learning environments that promote creative problem solving and diverse perspectives.

If you are currently in the midst of a conflict, these helpful tips will assist you as you work toward resolution.

Stop, take a breath and get grounded

Put the conflict into perspective and recognize that it’s something you are able work through. Commit to finding a constructive resolution.

Be mindful of your non-verbal communication and behaviours

Facial expressions, posture, tone of voice and other body language could be unknowingly escalating the conflict.

Consider another perspective

Be empathetic to the other people involved and be open to hearing how they have been impacted. Really hear what they are saying and ask clarifying questions to better understand.

Take responsibility for your part

Consider your role in the conflict and be open to hearing the impact your actions have had. Be willing to give a thoughtful apology if appropriate.

Be open to engaging in dialogue about resolution

Present your ideas and ask for others’ thoughts. Try to find a resolution that is agreeable to everyone involved. Be mindful that each of you may have to give up something to reach a successful resolution.

In addition to these informal steps to resolving conflict, we are available to provide customized one-on-one or group training and workshops to help meet your conflict management needs and understanding of human rights obligations at Laurier.