Conflict Styles as Indicators of Behavioral Patterns in Interpersonal Conflicts

Abstract

Abstract Relationships were examined between the assertiveness and cooperativeness dimensions of conflict styles, as determined by the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict MODE Instrument, and the specific behaviors, as identified through a situational conflict questionnaire, used by American business school students in a recent interpersonal conflict. The results suggest that preferences for assertiveness are reflected in both strategic and tactical use of behaviors, whereas cooperativeness is associated with last-choice behaviors.