🌟 The Conflict Cycle: From Beginning to Resolution 🌟

💭 Have you ever wondered how conflicts begin and why some are resolved while others worsen? 💭
Conflicts are an inevitable part of human relationships. They often start with subtle signs, such as disagreements or misunderstandings, and can escalate quickly if not managed properly. In this post, we’ll explore the stages of the conflict cycle and how we can intervene at each stage to improve communication and prevent issues from worsening.

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Phase 1: Early Signs
Conflicts usually begin with small differences in opinion, values, or expectations. At this stage, people may sense tension but are not always aware that a conflict is developing. Early signs include:
• 💬 Misunderstandings: Phrases or attitudes that are misinterpreted.
• 😶 Limited communication: Avoiding certain topics or tense conversations.
• 🤔 Feeling of discomfort: Even if not openly expressed, a tense atmosphere is perceived.

Phase 2: Escalation
If not addressed in the first phase, the conflict starts to escalate. At this stage, frustration may increase, and emotions such as anger or irritation take center stage. Small problems can turn into major disagreements, and communication often breaks down severely. Escalation signals include:
• Avoidance: Completely avoiding confrontation or discussing the issue.
• Accusations: Beginning to blame the other party for the situation.
• Increased tension: Aggressive or defensive responses.

Phase 3: Crisis
In the crisis phase, the conflict has reached its peak. Those involved feel that they are at a point of no return, and perspective is often lost. Overflowing emotions and impulsive reactions can worsen the situation, making it harder to manage.
• Impulsive reaction: Acting without thinking about the consequences.
• Distancing: The parties involved withdraw emotionally or physically from the conflict.
• Emotional exhaustion: Frustration and exhaustion are evident in both parties.

Phase 4: Resolution or Worsening
Depending on how the conflict is managed in the crisis phase, it can either be resolved or worsen. If the parties involved manage to maintain open and respectful communication, they can begin to seek solutions. However, if the crisis is not handled correctly, the conflict can intensify, leading to:
• Long-lasting emotional damage: Unresolved conflict can create resentment.
• Breakup: In some cases, relationships can permanently break down.

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How can we intervene to improve conflict resolution?
The key to preventing conflict from escalating is early intervention. Here are some helpful strategies:

1. 🧠 Identify early signs: Recognizing the first signs of tension can help prevent the conflict from worsening.
2. 💬 Encourage open communication: Invite the involved parties to share their emotions and thoughts honestly and respectfully.
3. 🛠️ Seek joint solutions: It's important to find common ground and work towards a solution that benefits both parties.
4. 🧘♂️ Stay calm: Avoid impulsive reactions and take time to reflect before responding, as this can make the difference between resolving or worsening the conflict.

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Final Considerations
The conflict cycle can be an opportunity for growth and strengthening relationships, as long as it is managed appropriately. Understanding each phase of this process allows us to intervene in time and prevent tensions from turning into irreparable rifts.

💬 Have you faced a conflict recently? How did you resolve it? Share your experience with us. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to learn!

With love,
Dr. Arturo José Sánchez Hernández
Your friend in health promotion 💙
Discover more of my works at: books2read.com/asanchez

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