ABSTRACT
A model of effective conflict management comprised of two stages—differentiation and integration—is described. Navigating these stages requires parties to avoid uncontrolled escalation and pathological avoidance, and strategies for recognizing these destructive cycles and moving in a positive direction are discussed. Four properties of conflict interaction are introduced and discussed: (1) Conflict is constituted by moves and countermoves; (2) interaction patterns in conflicts tend to perpetuate themselves; (3) conflict is influenced by and influences relationships; and (4) conflict is influenced by context.
