Synthesis of the Nature and Characteristics of Conflict and Conflict Resolution

This work presents a Synthesis of the Nature and Characteristics of Conflict and Conflict Resolution. Conflict is a mismanaged disagreement between persons, groups or states bordering on perceived differences and incompatible interests or goals. The work navigates through the nature and features of conflict in human existence and relationships, along with those of consequential conflict intervention and resolution, by requisite references. The study identifies some crucial and all-important characteristics of Conflict encompassing its types, sources, causes, consequences, as well as some beneficial outcomes. The study notes that no conflict lasts forever, and that it usually draws neutral third-party intervention for the purpose of its resolution. Some conflict resolution mechanisms including negotiation, mediation, conciliation and arbitration were uncovered and examined by the study. Data used for this study were obtained from primary and secondary sources of data collection and collation, and they were properly and scrupulously synthesised and analysed. From the data obtained, it was found by the study that conflict could be intra-personal, inter-personal and inter-communal. It was further discovered that conflict is rooted in some causative perspectives, namely, Doctrinal Perspective; Historical Perspective; Altruistic Perspective; and Socio-Political and Socio-Economic Perspective. The study concludes by stating that, because of its nature (conflict), resolution of conflict fosters renewed and stronger new-found peace, harmony and inter-relationships among erstwhile individual or communal conflictual parties. Such peace and harmony guarantee security, which in turn leads to progress and development for the benefit of all. In a nutshell, the study concludes that conflicts do have some beneficial outcomes.