Conflict situations happen at every turn. For some, there is a logical explanation, others occur for unknown reasons, causing misunderstanding on both sides. Turning to the method of cartography, you can creatively identify all the hidden motives and true causes of any conflict that has occurred or is brewing.
The concept
Conflict mapping is a psychological method that helps to understand the causes of conflict behavior and situations. This method is called cartography, because all the information entering the brain is able to be ordered in it, like countries on a geographical map of the world.
The essence of the method
The conflict mapping method consists of several stages, which are carried out using a graphic image of the analyzed data. Design can be anything from a regular table to a colorful scheme. You can also choose between a regular notepad and an electronic editor.
Each of the stages is aimed at identifying the true causes of the conflict, formulating the main problems, identifying fears and claims. This ultimately should lead to the fact that the conflict will be settled.
A phased and detailed analysis will help one side understand the nature of its behavior as clearly as possible and convey it to the second participant in the conflict. The same thing and vice versa - if the opponent can successfully analyze the existing problems, he will be able to rationally explain this to you.
In what cases conflict mapping will help
This psychological technique is suitable for resolving an existing conflict, as well as for brewing. Such cases include situations in which the tension of the partners becomes apparent, but so far no one has expressed their discontent and complaints. This is a matter of time, a kind of time bomb. To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is worthwhile at the initial stage to try to prevent an approaching conflict situation.
Also, this method is used to choose the right solution in a difficult life situation. Any tasks and decisions that may affect future life often raise doubts and insecurity. To make the right choice, you can refer to this method.
The analysis of the conflict by cartography can be carried out both by one person, and with the help of everyone who is involved in it and is interested in ending it as soon as possible. The participation of all parties will help to take a more detailed look at all the components of the conflict. While solitary analysis can only speculate on what moves the other person.
Stage One. Identification of the main problem
If the reasons do not always lie on the surface, then the essence of the problem, as a rule, is obvious. To begin with, it is worth voicing it and assigning it a name of several words. The initial stage is not designed for a deep analysis of the problem, the search for causes and solutions. Even if it is not immediately possible to identify clear difficulties, you can turn to a generalized form, but try to specify more.
An example of conflict mapping at the first stage is any sphere of life. If the conflict occurs in a romantic relationship, the problem can be called "misunderstanding." If a couple swears over house cleaning, the problem can be described as the “distribution of household duties”. If the conflict occurs with the boss due to the fact that he does not give you a more serious and significant project, the problem may sound like "lack of confidence in professional skills."
Stage Two. Identification of persons involved
It is necessary to identify each person who is related to the conflict. It can be either one person or a whole group of people. If the amount is impressive, for the convenience of all, it can be divided into categories, depending on the significance of each person.
For example, cartography of a pedagogical conflict at this stage may include several groups. The conflict could occur due to the fault of only two teachers, and with the participation of strangers. These may include students or the head of the institution. In this case, all participants should be divided into categories: the main person is another teacher, secondary persons are the director and students. To paint each member of the group is, if necessary.
Stage Three. Identification of needs
At this stage of conflict mapping, it is necessary to identify the needs and doubts of each interested person regarding the current problem. Each person’s needs can be different, they include: a desire to be heard and recognized, career growth, respect from colleagues, mutual understanding with relatives, interesting activities, receiving awards and in general everything that has value and significance for an individual person in one way or another .
To find out the needs of each participant, it is worth asking the following questions:
- In the current situation, what are your needs?
- What do you want?
- What else are you missing?
After each question asked, for which there is an answer, ask:
- Why do you want it?
- For what?
After the needs of each of the participants are identified, it is worth learning about fears by asking questions:
- What is confusing you?
- What are you afraid of?
- And why?
Each identified need and concern should be written in the appropriate box.
Stage Four. Analysis of the work done
Finding themselves at the last stage of conflict mapping, many notice that the experiences or needs are the same for both participants, even if it is not one person, but a whole group. Any similar answers must be highlighted, this will make it clear that both conflicting are able to understand each other.
- Pay attention to what has become for you new information previously unknown.
- Find common needs that will serve as a fulcrum.
- Identify similar interests and values shared by all stakeholders.
- Find points that can be changed in a positive way, which ultimately leads to the agreement of both parties.
- Summarize individual values into a common interest. For example, a manager needs a daily executed plan, and a worker needs an air rest to replenish energy. Both of these points can be combined in one working day.
- Highlight the most problematic areas of the conflict, considering and voicing all possible options for resolving this problem.
- Pay attention to those needs and doubts that came as a surprise to you. Think about what you can do with them.
- Determine the reward that both parties will receive if the conflict is resolved. Suppose, if the husband stops smoking in the apartment, the air will become cleaner and more aromatic.
Analyze each answer received, discussing it and its solutions with a second interested party.