Question

Describe a conflict scenario Walmart company was involved in or one you think they could be involved in.

Describe two types of conflict that occurred in this scenario. (Functional conflict vs Dysfunctional Conflict)

Describe how this scenario went through the four stages of conflict (latent, perceived, manifest, aftermath).

What style of conflict did the company use to approach the issue?

Uses of Five Styles of Conflict Management: avoiding, accomodating, forcing, compromise, collaborating

Properly referencing your sources

MNGT 250: CHAPTER 10 CONFLICT AND NEGOTIATION

There are four distinct phases for every major conflict situation:

1. The prelude or latent conflict, where conflict hasn’t risen arisen yet, but the potential for conflict exists.
2. The trigger event, where the conflict becomes apparent
3. The conflict stage, where opposing views are expressed and may become entrenched
4. (ideally) resolution and dispute settlement

Answer 1

Wal-Mart was facing a conflict situation with its employees last year when the employees filed a discrimination suit against the company. The female employees of the company had filed a gender discrimination lawsuit against Wal-Mart stating that the company discriminates against them. The female employees were paid less when compared with the male counterparts. Moreover the female employees were not given promotion opportunities. This discrimination practice led to the conflict.

This is clearly a dysfunctional conflict. The female employees are being differentiated by the company, hence they are feeling conflicted. Moreover there is no constructive difference between the employees and the employer.

The conflict at Wal-Mart in the 4 stages of conflict are as follows:

· Latent Stage: Initially when the growth decisions and promotions are released, the female employees have not been given any substantial opportunities. The female employees start feeling dejected.

· Perceived Stage: The female employees realized that the male employees are given preference. They have started discussing about the differential treatment among themselves and managers. The management has realized that something is brewing among the female employees.

· Felt Stage: The female employees think about the course of action which they can take to address this differential treatment. The management is also contemplating about the move of the employees.

· Manifest Stage: The female employees filed the discrimination lawsuit against the management. The management is ready to face the lawsuit in court. The court proceedings happen and the claims of both parties are thoroughly listened by the court.

· Aftermath Stage: The court fines the company and provides compensatory damages to the female employees. The company also promises to make changes in the talent management policy so as to address and remove the discriminatory practice.

The company, Wal-Mart adopted the collaboration method for conflict resolution. The Court helped the company to understand the perspective of the female employees and make amendments to solve the issue.

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