MEDIA AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

088-948
Kabahinda .V.Vanessa
Discuss the relationship between
I) Identity and conflict
II) Power relations and conflict

Solution
I)Identity and conflict
Identity requires opponents assigning an “identity “ to themselves and their adversaries each side
believing that “ the fight is between us and them “ .

Conflict refers to the process of social interaction involving a struggle over claims to resources , power,
status , beliefs and other preferences and desires . Conflict can also be defined as the perception of
differences of interests among individuals or groups of people.

The relationship between identity and conflict in conflict management is consisted of many different
factors and aspects . . Identity acts as an important role in determining individuals opinions ,
conduct ,decisions as well as their behaviors,that therefore affect the dynamics of conflict as well as its
effectiveness in management strategies. The following are some of the aspects of the relationship
between identity and conflict in conflict management:

Identity as a Source of Conflict

The contrast in identity, such as cultural, religious, ethnic, or national identities, can be a source of
conflict. When individuals or groups of people recognize their identity as being intimidated or
marginalized, which can cause tensions . These disagreements may come as a result from the wish or
desire to protect one's identity as well as the need to preserve cultural traditions, or maintain one's
rights and independency.

Identity and Emotional speculation / investment

Identity is in most cases connected with individuals or groups of people’s emotions and sense of being
affiliated with a particular group . Conflicts that necessitate identity-related concerns can call to mind
strong emotional reaction thus bring about , a challenge in managing and resolving or finding a
solution to the conflict effectively or resolution . Emotions that align with identity can can bring out
antipathy suspicions as well as imperfections thus distrusting the productive of constructive
conversation dialogue and problem-solving.

Identity and Communication

Identity I impacts on how groups of people or individuals communicate and interpret messages during
conflict , individuals or . People may be more willing to give an ear or listen to and empathize or identify
with those who share their identity markers though while being less open minded to other points of
view from those perceived as different. This can therefore lead to linguistic or communication barriers
as well as miscomprehensions or misunderstandings thus causing or making it difficult to find common
ground and reach mutually acceptable solutions.
Identity and Conflict Resolution Strategies Successful conflict management must need a great and
impactful understanding of how identity shapes the perceptions and motivations of the parties engaged
therefore the Conflict resolution strategies that acknowledge or accept and communicate the identity-
related concerns for example the cultural differences send similarities between people who put into
identification of diverse points of view as well as the all in all decision-making processes are therefore
more likely to be victorious in being in charge of all identity-based conflicts.

Identity and Conflict

Modification : In some cases, conflict management efforts and effectively may require the need to
focus on changing the fundamental identity dynamics that impact the conflict. This can therefore add
up the promoting intercultural conversations , encouraging affinity or empathy as well as the
understanding across identity lines, and collaborating towards inclusive identities that put up diversity
and encourage coexistence.

In conclusion of the relationship between identity and conflict in conflict management highly emphasize
the importance of recognizing and addressing identity-related factors in the resolution and
transformation of the conflict

ii)
Power Relations and conflict
Power is an essential ingredient in understanding conduct relationships as well as behavior along with
identity this power can be defined as what one part can with persuade or coerce the other to give up.

The relationship between power relations and conflict in conflict management is essential to a great
identification as well as the understanding the strength of conflicts as well as the art way forward for
their Power resolution can importantly influence the nature, rapid increase of conflicts. Below are the
features of the relationship between power relations and conflict in conflict management:

Power Imbalance as a Source of Conflict: Power imbalances these , can be a the depth root cause of
conflicts once one party holds more importance of more power than another thus leading to feelings of
injustice and oppression, which may Provoke the resentment. Inequality in power relations therefore
create a basis for conflicts to emerge, in social and cultural aspects .

Power Dynamics in Conflict Escalation

The the process of conflict uprise , power dynamics normally come into the phase in this case parties
majorly seek to assert their power as well as their influence over the particular situation, leading to
heightened tensions and absurd behaviors. Power struggles can arise conflicts thus making them more
resistant to resolution.

Influence of Power on Conflict Management Approaches: Power relations can shape the choice of
conflict management approaches and strategies. In situations where power differentials are significant,
parties with more power may attempt to impose their preferred solutions, leading to resistance and
further conflict. Conversely, parties with less power may feel compelled to acquiesce to the demands of
the more powerful party, leading to a perceived lack of fairness in the conflict resolution process.

Addressing Power Imbalances in Conflict Management: Effective conflict management requires

addressing power imbalances to ensure fairness and equity in the resolution process. This may involve
creating mechanisms for inclusive participation, empowering marginalized voices, and promoting
dialogue that acknowledges and addresses power differentials. By addressing power imbalances, conflict
management efforts can work towards more sustainable and just resolutions.

Power and Conflict Transformation: In some cases, conflict management efforts may need to focus on
transforming power relations to address the underlying causes of the conflict. This can involve
redistributing power, promoting empowerment, and fostering collaborative decision-making processes
that recognize and perspectives .