Although, no one approaches conflict the same way all the time because people and events move in and out of our daily lives. However, we do resort to a particular conflict style we feel most comfortable with more often than not to get what we want. Take a look at the 14 different styles of conflict below and decide which style best fits you most of the time when you are engaged in a conflict. After you have chosen, find out how to get more of what you want.
 Dolphin
Player with others; sees conflict as positive and a way to learn and have fun with the other. |
 Shark
Gets angry easily; attacks others, especially those weaker than them; aggressive and territorial; forces their ideas, wants, and values on others.
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| Giraffe
Willing to stick one's neck out; not afraid of conflict or being different; unique; renowned. |
 Ostrich
Refuses to deal with conflict; hides feelings and needs, pretends there isn't a problem, avoids participation.
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 Puppy Dog
Willing to get into productive conflict; prevents stagnation and encourages innovation and problem solving. |
 Sheep
Follows everyone else; agrees with any solution; is afraid of disagreement and controversy; has low self-esteem.
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 Swan
Sees conflict as a way to enhance a long-term relationship; committed to the other person; conflict is productive because the relationship is stable enough to handle change.
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 Hippo
Big mouth who talks behind other people's back; doesn't deal with conflict directly; gossips and complains. |
 Deer
Gentle, graceful, tender, endearing; able to empathize without giving in.
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 Hyena
always making jokes; unwilling to be serious; doesn't come up with realistic solutions when problems arise. |
 Honey Bee
Cooperative worker; travels long distances to find the best in any situation. |
 Fox
Escapes taking responsibility; clever and manipulative; tries to outsmart the other person instead of being open and honest.
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 Eagle
Long vision; soars above small conflicts to see the larger picture; insightful; purposeful; courageous. |
 Owl
Hides all feelings behind big words; intellectualizes about problems; tries to fix other's problems by giving advice; always in control. |
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