4.4Managing conflict

When objections to change become a matter of intergroup conflict, different problems requiring special treatment may arise. This may happen if a group is to give up its activity or work method to adopt one practised by another group. If a group sees itself as threatened, there will be a closing of the ranks and more cohesive action, and the group will become more tolerant of authoritative rule by its chosen leaders. Hostility to other groups is likely to arise, especially if the situation is perceived as a “win–lose” encounter. Communication will become distorted and difficult, as each group will be prepared to admit only the positive aspects of its own argument and the negative aspects of the “enemy’s”.

Basic strategies to reduce intergroup conflict (box 4.5) include the establishment of goals upon which both groups can agree in order to restore genuine