Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable part of professional practice, particularly in complex, high-stakes environments such as healthcare and interprofessional settings. Differences in clinical reasoning, role expectations, communication styles, resource allocation, and organizational priorities can create tension among team members. While conflict itself is not inherently negative, unmanaged conflict can erode trust, disrupt collaboration, and compromise performance and client outcomes.

Effective conflict resolution is therefore a core leadership competency. It requires emotional regulation, strategic thinking, clear communication, and the ability to facilitate constructive dialogue. Leaders must be able to identify the underlying interests driving disagreement, create psychologically safe spaces for discussion, and guide teams toward solutions that preserve relationships while advancing shared goals.

This lesson explores the dynamics of workplace conflict, common barriers to resolution, and evidence-based approaches to managing disagreement constructively. Students will examine how conflict resolution strengthens interprofessional collaboration, supports team functioning, and contributes to safer, more effective practice.

Watch:

Watch this 6:05-minute video on conflict resolution to understand how leaders can navigate workplace disagreements constructively, reduce escalation, and foster collaborative solutions that protect relationships and performance.