Handout 7: My Feelings About Conflict
Instructions: People respond to conflict in ways that reflect their upbringing and life experiences. The following questions are to help you think about your feelings about conflict. Brainstorm as many an swers to each question as you like. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers.
1. What messages did you get about conflict when you were growing up? (For example, "It's impo lite to disagree in public." Or, "It's important to stand up for yourself.")
2. When you hear the word "conflict" now, how do you feel? (For example, "Conflict makes me feel nervous." Or, "Conflict makes me feel powerful - I love a good debate.")
3. Think about working with a group of parents and staff. When you sense there is conflict, what do you usually do? (For example, "I get very quiet so I don't have to disagree with anyone." Or, "I get very competitive.")
4. Working together as a team means learning to work through conflict together. What would you like the other team members to know about how you deal with conflict? (For example, "When I'm under stress I get defensive.")
5. If you could change two things about how you handle conflict, what would they be?
1.2.