FRAMEWORKS FOR UNDERSTANDING CONFLICT

Unmet physical and psychological needs underlie many if not all conflicts. In
reading the literature on conflict, there are many frameworks for analyzing and
understanding basic human needs. The chart below is a synopsis of a few of
these frameworks:

WHO SAID IT? NAME OF THEORY BASIC PREMISE

Mary Parker Follett Integrative Conflict  Conflict can be beneficial

Resolution  Even the most controversial matters often

include threads from which an integrative
resolution can be woven
1920s  In the workplace, when employees feel
like they are partners in the business,
they do not improve quality or decrease
wasted time and material because of the
golden rule , rather because their
interests become the same as the
employers
Maslow Hierarchy of Needs
There are 5 categories of basic needs
1968 that all people have. These needs
have to be met in sequence from the
first level up. If the needs at the first
level are not met, the needs at the
next level cannot be met.

5. community
And
wholeness

4. esteem
3. primary relationships
(individuals)
2. protection and security
1. food, clothing, shelter

Glasser Control Theory After the basic needs of food clothing, shelter,
protection and security are met, then behavior
1984 responses can be attributed to the need for:

(individuals) Belonging, power, freedom and fun

Louise Diamond Psychological Needs of After the basic needs of food clothing, shelter,
are met, then behavior responses can be
Groups attributed to the need for:
1994
Identity, security, vitality and
(groups) community

Phoebe Barash
Copyright 2008
EARCOS