In conflicts that pertain to values, when is resolution easier to achieve?

Resolution in conflicts involving values is generally easier to achieve when both parties agree on the value in question. When both individuals have a shared understanding and agreement on the value at stake, it creates a foundation for collaboration and mutual respect. Rather than entering into a divisive confrontation over differing beliefs, the parties can focus on reinforcing their shared values, which can foster a spirit of cooperation and lead to amicable solutions.

In contrast, if only one person finds the value significant while the other does not, it can create a significant disconnect that complicates resolution efforts. The sense of urgency or importance to one party may not resonate with the other, leading to frustration and a potential stalemate, as the party who values the issue feels unheard or unacknowledged. This misalignment often leads to escalation of the conflict rather than resolution.

Resolution becomes challenging in circumstances where the attention is on values that may be trivial to one or both parties or when the conflict is external to the relationship, as these scenarios can either diminish the motivation to resolve the conflict or create further barriers that prevent constructive dialogue. Therefore, achieving an agreement on the significance of the value in the conflict can greatly simplify the resolution process.