Conflict Resolution
You are male unit supervisor of a pediatric trauma unit. Threeyears ago, you ended a serious romantic relationship with Susie,who worked at a different hospital. The break up was mutual andSusie was not hurt or angry. One month ago, Susie accepted aposition as a unit supervisor. This has required you to interactformally at department meetings and informally regarding staffingand personal issues on a regular basis. Often these interactionshave been marked by either covert hostility on Susie’s part,nonverbal aggression, or sniping comments. When you attempted toconfront Susie about her behavior, she stated that “she didn’t havea problem and that you shouldn’t flatter yourself to think that shedoes.”
The situation is becoming increasingly more difficult to workaround and both staff and fellow supervisors have become more awareof the tension. You love your position and do not want to leave,but it has become increasingly apparent that the situation cannotcontinue as it is.
Answer the following questions and explain your answers indetail. Provide a theoretical, evidenced based rationale for youranswers.
- How might gender have influenced the latent conditions,perceived or felt conflict, manifest conflict, and conflictaftermath in this situation?
- What conflict strategies might you choose to resolve thisconflict?
- Would you use a mediator to be helpful in this situation?
