Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

"Where There Is A Will…": A New Exercise To Explore Distributive And Integrative Conflict Management, Joseph Seltzer, James W. Smither

Organization Management Journal

An exercise was developed to provide a quick and comprehensive exploration of conflict management styles and integrative versus distributive bargaining. Two brothers meet to divide nine items and cash from their father‘s estate. Some items are wanted by one brother more than the other, often because of information known to only one. One item requires an integrative solution to fully gain its value. A variation of the exercise is suggested that incorporates the relationship between the brothers as another variable in managing conflict. Teaching notes and examples of classroom use and student responses are provided.