Chapter 1: Review Test 5

Survey the following passage from a college social science textbook. Then, using the words in italics and bold print, create two questions to guide your reading.

         ¹The way you deal with conflict can have both positive and negative effects.

Negative Effect

          ²Among the disadvantages of conflict is that it often leads to increased negative feelings. ³Many conflicts involve unfair fighting methods and focus largely on hurting the other person. ⁴If this happens, negative feelings are sure to increase. ⁵Conflict may also deplete energy better spent on other areas. ⁶At times, conflict may lead you to close yourself off from the other person. ⁷Doing so prevents meaningful communication, and this, in turn, creates barriers to intimacy.

Positive Effects

         ⁸Among the advantages of conflict is that it forces you to examine a problem and work toward a solution. ⁹If you use productive conflict strategies, your relationship is likely to become stronger. ¹⁰Conflict often prevents the buildup of hostility and resentment. ¹¹Through your conflict with another person and its resolution, you each let your needs be known, and you each have the opportunity to see the needs of another person. ¹²Conflict also enables each of you to state what you each want and perhaps to get it. ¹³In addition, conflict reflects the importance of the relationship.