Time pressure is an important variable when defining a conflict management situation. There always seems to be the element of time pressure when dealing with conflict resolution, making the strategy of collaboration difficult to implement, no matter how attractive it is.
There are other key variables in conflict management aside from the consideration of time.
The importance of the issues that find themselves on the chopping block seems primordial in any conflict. This is because the conflict situation always weighs the extent to which important priorities, principles or values are involved in the conflict and impact its severity, as well as influence its desired solution.
There is also the undeniable and inescapable consideration for the importance of relationship. Conflicts arise because of human relationships, after all. There is always a certain amount of consideration as to how important it is that one maintains a close, mutually supportive relationship with the other party. Saving the relationship is one of the ultimate objectives of conflict resolution.
When one finds himself in conflict with another person over very important issues, he will normally try to collaborate with the other party, being a logical and responsible individual. But if time is precious, and it always is in a conflict situation, he will muster whatever power he possesses to impose his will. The expediency to resolve the issue becomes more important than saving the relationship.
When issues are crucial, there is hardly any room for compromising even if it promises to deliver quick solutions. That’s just how human nature goes.
Via Helium
