7.2.3 Procedural Conflict

Procedural conflict (also known as process conflict) is a disagreement over how to achieve a goal and resolution.6 Procedural conflict can relate to aspects such as who should be involved in a decision, how to go about it, where you should meet, or what rules should be followed. Parents arguing over how to discipline children and business co-owners arguing over how to set a fair vacation policy are procedural conflict examples. Burnett notes that affective conflict can lead to procedural conflict For example, if I don’t trust you, why should I accept your ideas on how to proceed? Setting detailed goals and procedures early in your interactions will help prevent this type of conflict from having serious consequences.

These three types of conflict (affective, substantive, procedural) relate to the relational environment, or the context in which they occur. In addition, conflict is often categorized by the number of participants. This approach results in four categories:

Categories of Conflict Based on Number of Participants

Practicing Ethics: Pseudo Conflict

Have you ever argued with someone about something, only to realize you both were in agreement or saying the same thing? This is pseudo conflict, which occurs when people think there is a problem or disagreement, while in reality, there isn’t. Be careful of jumping to conclusions. Ask the other person to explain his or her behavior, and be aware of how each of you is reacting. Be open.7