Based on conference presentations held at the Kellogg School of Management, this book reveals the latest international thinking on organizational conflict in the business sector. It tackles complex questions about conflict, such as whether it is always considered negative or if there are situations where it can be positive, and presents advances in theory and methodology to challenge current thinking. Divided into two parts, Part One presents new advancements in measuring the relationship between individual members and group conflict; Part two explores the variables that affect the nature of group process and performance. Demonstrating how conflict can work for and against performance, this book will enable you to understand and manage it effectively in your organization. By nurturing the good aspects and suppressing the bad, you will encourage an effective organizational group, which will ultimately lead to a more productive and profitable workforce.

Author Biography

Kristin J. Behfar is an assistant professor of organization and strategy at the Paul Merage School of Business, University of California, Irvine. Leigh L Thompson is J. Jay Gerber Distinguished Professor of Dispute Resolution and Organization at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.