CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Although conflict can be unnerving, many long time disability advocates suggest that conflict is a necessary part of helping people's dreams come true. All children experience some conflict with adults as they set out to define their own lives. The same is true for a person with a disability who sets out to define for him or herself what life is about. Conflict is manageable especially when the situation is managed with problem solving.
Key Points to Conflict Resolution:
1. Planning
2. Listen Actively
3. Bargaining Techniques
4. Win-Win Situations
5. Separate People
from the "Problem"
6. Follow-Up
PLANNING
"Neutrals must act fairly in dealing with the parties, have
no personal interest in the terms of the settlement, show no bias
towards individuals and institutions involved in the dispute, be
reasonably available as requested by the parties, and be certain
that the parties are informed of the process in which they are involved."
---The Association for Conflict Resolution (for more information, find their website under Resources).
Planning ahead and providing a guide or map to teams who are addressing difficult issues (i.e. changing living arrangements, stepping outside of known comfort zones, taking chances) provides not only support but respect.
You must ensure that your employers and their Circles of Support have the information necessary to make good decisions. It is important to fully explain, without demonstrating bias, what decisions need to be discussed. If you establish ground rules prior to each meeting you will:
a) give everyone time to speak,
b) prevent monopolizing, and
c) keep the focus on the employer.
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