Abstract
Conflicts in schools can be settled amicably if certain variables become known such as probable circumstances under which schools might face conflicts, factors causing conflicts, and ways of effective conflict management. This chapter first introduces basic concepts related to conflict. The sections about interpersonal relations, communication, interpersonal relations, and listening as a part of communication are dedicated to communication and interpersonal relations as the root of conflict. The following sections of this chapter elaborate conflict as well as terms regarding reasons of conflict including what conflict is, the conflict theory, types of conflict, factors causing interpersonal conflicts, interpersonal conflicts in schools, and reasons of student-student conflicts in schools. In this scope, effective ways of conflict management are discussed. The sections about conflict management emphasize that conflicts can be overcome in a constructive manner.
TopBackground
Interpersonal Relations
Interpersonal relationships have to do with social bond and social emotional affinity among individuals. It is assumed that interpersonal relationships take place in different contexts such as family, school, and workplace as well as among parents, friends or colleagues. As an associated concept, interpersonal communication refers to a process that occurs between at least two people and engages a recipient and a source both of whom are humans. İmamoğlu (2008) defines interpersonal relationships as behavioral experiences, interrelationships and acquaintances between two or more persons in interaction (as cited by Koçak and Önen, 2014).
Communication is essential to build management and culture raised by leadership and trust. In a school environment, the quality of relations with teachers and other school stakeholders increases the well-being and life satisfaction of the individuals in that setting (Bester, 2019). Interpersonal relations in such environments may deteriorate due to various reasons such as absent-mindedness and interpersonal relations in the school environment (Koçak & Önen, 2014) or academic achievement and interpersonal relations (Serdaroğlu & Şengül, 2014). In addition; Rhee, McQuillan, Chen, and Atis (2017) think that illness has damaging effects on teacher and student relationships.
By nature, interpersonal relationships are not only vulnerable to many variables in schools but also they influence many other variables. This makes it necessary to improve the quality of communication. Otherwise, the school environment will be inevitably exposed to unwanted conflicts. Smooth interpersonal relationships can be achieved through ways such as sharing hopes of individuals and strengthening the relationships based on common goals to sign a successful project (Kathleen, 2003).
Key Terms in this Chapter
Interpersonal Conflicts: It refers to a conflict between at least two people.
Interpersonal Relations: Interpersonal communication describes the process of communication that occurs between at least two people.
Communication: It refers to transferring of ideas and feelings.
Interpersonal Communication: It is defined as a psychological and also social process that develops between at least two people and enables the sharing of knowledge, emotion, etc.
Mediator: An impartial person outside the conflict interferes with the issue to support the conflict resolution and the communication between the parties involved.