conflict theory is rooted in...
sociology --> used to explain differences between classes within society and the competition for scarce resources
Karl Marx
father of conflict theory
Hegel's dialectic/theory of evolution of ideas
an accepted idea
thesis
will always be challenged by its opposite
antithesis
until stable ground is met
synthesis
Marx's class theory
ruling classes overthrown by oppressed classes thru conflict
oppressed classes --> ruling class
eventually overthrown by those that they had oppressed
Assumptions of Conflict Theory
-the nature of humans is that they are self-oriented
-societies operate under perpetual scarcity of resources
-group dynamics are different in families than in other groups
-conflict is a
confrontation
over control of scarce resources
-can be classified f
2 Perspectives of Conflict Theory
1. Macro-social
2. Micro-social
Macro-social
-conflict between classes of people
-who has power/resource access; and who does not
-concern with discrimination and privilege
Micro-social
-look
within
a family system
-asymmetry in authority/access --> structural differences
conflict management
recognizes underlying competition but participating in reciprocal interactions to gain resources
conflict resolution
the
process
of ending a conflict and the
end
of the conflict
-no longer perception of competition for a resource
power
ability to control the actions/behaviors of others; control of resources
assertion
affirming one's rights without interfering with another's rights
aggression
behavioral use of power to force compliance
promises
delivery of something positive if demands are met
threats
delivery of punishment if demands are not met
conflict revolves around:
POWER
COMMUNICATION
types of power
power base
power processes
power outcomes
power base
what we bring into the relationship
power processes
techniques used to gain control
power outcomes
final outcome, final decision that is made
communication is...
the key factor in conflict
demanders
high tolerance for conflict
escalates conflict
avoider
lower tolerance for conflict
conflict is _____________ in families
inevitable
conflict within a family
teaches children how to manage it outside the family