Struggles for cooperation: conflict resolution strategies in multicultural groups
Boros, Smaranda Meslec, M.N Curseu, Petru L . Emons, W.
Boros, Smaranda
Meslec, M.N
Curseu, Petru L .
Emons, W.
Citations
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Publication Type
Journal article
Editor
Supervisor
Publication Year
2010
Journal
Journal of Managerial Psychology
Book
Publication Volume
25
Publication Issue
5
Publication Begin page
539
Publication End page
554
Publication NUmber of pages
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Abstract
The aim of this paper is to examine the influence of group composition in cultural values on conflict management styles in groups. Design/methodology/approach A field study using data from 125 groups was conducted. Findings The results show that in groups where members feel they are equal and connected (horizontal collectivism) cooperation is better, and contending and avoiding conflict management styles are used less. When people view themselves as unequal and independent (vertical individualism (VI)) the avoiding style of conflict management is more frequently used. Withinâgroup similarity (low variety) in VI leads to more cooperation and less avoidant conflict management strategies as well as less third party interventions. High group variety in views of being unequal, but interconnected (vertical collectivism), as well as in the views of being equal but independent (horizontal individualism), leads to more cooperative conflict resolution strategy.