What is the Difference Between Traditional Approach and Modern Approach on Conflict?

The main difference between the traditional approach and the modern approach to conflict lies in their views on whether conflicts are beneficial or detrimental to an organization.

Traditional Approach:

• Conflicts are seen as inevitable, destructive, and should be avoided if possible.
• Emphasizes suppression and elimination, meaning that conflict is not voiced out.
• Focuses on identifying and removing the malfunctioning causes of conflict.
• Believes that any conflict in an organization is outright bad, negative, and harmful.

Modern Approach:

• Conflicts can be constructive and good, and different ways of thinking should be encouraged to get multiple ideas and solutions to problems.
• Conflict is seen as an opportunity for growth, change, and can lead to positive outcomes.
• Emphasizes that only functional and constructive forms of conflict support the organization, while dysfunctional or destructive forms of conflict should always be avoided.
• Encourages employees to voice out their grievances and dissatisfaction, and supports the existence of grievance procedures and collective bargaining.

In summary, while the traditional approach views conflicts as something to be avoided and suppressed, the modern approach sees conflicts as opportunities for growth and positive change. The modern approach acknowledges that not all conflicts are beneficial and healthy, and it emphasizes the importance of managing conflicts effectively to foster organizational success.

Comparative Table: Traditional Approach vs Modern Approach on Conflict

The key difference between the traditional approach and the modern approach to conflict lies in their perception of conflict and how they handle it. Here is a table comparing the two approaches:

The traditional approach views conflict as something bad that should be avoided and suppressed, while the modern approach sees conflict as an opportunity for growth and change, and believes that a moderate level of conflict can lead to optimum performance.