In thinking about ways to navigate and respond to conflict, it is important to understand each person’s position and their interest. A person’s position normally describes their desired, stated outcome - what they would like to happen. An interest normally describes the motivations, beliefs, or values behind that position - WHY they would like that outcome. When positions seem to be incompatible, working to clarify and satisfy interests can be valuable in resolving conflict effectively.
The Office of Student Conflict Resolution (OSCR) provides tools and resources for resolving conflict, and can also offer Restorative Justice (RJ) Circles and Facilitated Dialogues as ways to respond to conflict situations. To learn more about how OSCR may be able to support you, please visit the OSCR website.