Relational Conflicts (Family, Parent-child, Peers)
In the workplace, at home, on vacation -sometimes it may seem as if conflict are unavoidable and often, they can become overwhelming.
Where there is a relationship there can be a conflict. Those conflicts can become malignant and affect our most important relationships. Relational conflict refers to the differences we feel between ourselves and others and the way we relate to each other. Relational conflict can arise as a result of incompatible differences between individuals over issues of esteem, control, affiliation, status, values, fate, character etc.
Relational conflict behaviours can occur within a work environment, within the family and amongst friends. Making disparaging and condescending remarks, using the silent treatment, ignoring or interrupting others, undermining colleagues, peers or loved ones, not giving credit where credit is due, insulting or yelling at others are all examples of certain relational conflicts.
The conflicts between parents and children are some of the most common ones. However, they can become discordant and often hateful interactions during which both the parent and child display negative behaviours and affect. Going unresolved these conflicts can have a long-lasting devastating effect on both parties.
One might be prone to lash out or be a victim of the conflictual behaviour. Talking to a therapist can help one identify and target the root of the conflictual behaviours and work for their resolution.