Conflict is an inevitable part of our daily lives. Since no two people see things exactly the same way, sooner or later a disagreement is sure to arise. Conflict is simply a difference of opinion and is considered a normal part of our daily lives. There are different forms of conflict and not all of them are considered negative. This paper will discuss the causes of conflict, different types of conflict, and obstacles to conflict. According to Communication Research Associates, conflict is a condition of imbalance within an individual (Communication Research Associates, 2005, p. 178). Keep in mind that just as there are disadvantages to conflict, there are also several advantages. To identify and resolve a conflict, you must first understand its causes. Conflict styles can be classified as productive; that have a positive influence on one or all parties involved, destructive; which have a negative influence on any or all parties involved or on competition; that “one party achieves victory through strength, superior skill, or dominance at the expense of the other party's desires” (Schermerhon, Hunt, & Osborne, 2002, p. 134-135). Conflict can arise from a variety of causes, including: communication problems, personality clashes, heightened ego, previous unresolved issues, stress, and breach of trust by one or more parties. All of the causes listed fall into one or more of the seven conflict types discussed later in this article. The underlying stress and tension is a conflict waiting to happen. Often people keep things bottled up inside and the slightest provocation makes them explode. If the recipient is unaware of how to handle the conflict, his or her first instinct wo... middle of paper... This type of barrier, if exacerbated, can destroy any hope of rational communication. Unmanaged or unresolved conflict can quickly escalate. It is therefore important to recognize and address conflicts as early as possible. In this way, the chances of an escalation decrease and the chances of a feasible and constructive solution increase. The best solution to conflict is to recognize it, understand it, maintain a positive outlook about it, and know that avoiding it won't make it go away. Works CitedCommunication Research Associates. (2005). Communicate! A workbook for interpersonal communication (7th ed.). Long Beach: Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company.Schermerhon, J., HUNT, J., & Osborne, R. (2002). Organizational Behavior (7th edition). Windle, R., & Warren, S. (n.d.). Conflict 101. Retrieved June 5, 2010, from http://www.directionservice.org/cadre