Question

Will is very adept at resolving conflicts among his staff by playing down the differences with respect to a given issue while emphasizing the common interests of both parties. This conflict management strategy is called

a. avoidance.
b. smoothing.
c. compromising.
d. problem solving.

Answer 1

Will's strategy for conflict management where common interests are emphasized and differences are downplayed is known as smoothing. It is a way of reducing tension and maintaining harmony without directly solving the underlying issues.

Step-by-step explanation:

The conflict management strategy that Will employs, which involves playing down the differences while emphasizing the common interests of the parties involved, is known as smoothing. This technique aims to alleviate the tension in a conflict situation by focusing on areas of agreement and trying to find a pleasant middle ground without necessarily resolving the deeper issues. Such an approach is distinguished from compromise, problem solving, or avoidance in that it seeks to calm the situation and maintain harmonious relationships rather than pursuing an immediate permanent solution or competition.