One of the major problems facing any type of team is the potential for disruptive conflict.

No matter what sport, job or network, feelings of animosity between individuals or subgroups can occur. Some of these groups are often labeled as cliques. When this type of behavior exists, there is generally a breakdown in communication. 

In some cases, the problem stems from the manager or team leader having some form of issue with others. In other situations, there may be some situation where diversity, jealousy or insecurities among members ignite a fire among the team. When two people’s personalities become indifferent, a clash generally occurs between the two parties’ attitudes, needs, values or experiences. Since your personality is deep rooted by the time you’re an adult, some situations may appear impossible to improve.

When dealing with conflicts among team members, it is wise to encourage all parties to agree to meet and make an effort to solve any problems at hand. It always helps if people agree that there is a problem and then they accept the fact that it is important to solve the problem as soon as possible. Understanding each other is the key to finding a solution. Realistically, it is impossible, at times, to like everyone. Therefore, it is imperative that those who disagree work as best as they can together to produce positive results.

In many cases, team members may show nonverbal cues to suggest that they are not satisfied with each other. Some members may agree privately to the nature of a problem. It is often common for team members to blame each other. These symptoms are easily identified by an outsider. However, there are also symptoms more easily observed by insiders. For example, members may appear frustrated, powerless, or unmotivated.

When dealing with conflict, a smart person will take the risk of ‘owning up’ to his or her true feelings and beliefs. He or she realizes that great skill is required to know how to confess to a particular weakness. In addition, it is understood that strength in one’s character is needed in order for a person to place one’s self in an uncomfortable situation simply to find peace in the resolution of a difficult experience. The nature of negotiation is not a simple task. It is typically a process that transforms over time. Mutual adjustments must occur and both parties must proactively choose to take a closer look at what is actually happening and what can bring value to a dysfunctional, unnecessary conflict.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who lives in Daphne.

Her column regularly appears in The Bulletin.