Conflict Resolution for Youth: Transforming Tension into Teamwork

The #1 source of pain on a team, or in any relationship, is conflict. What if conflict wasn’t good or bad? What if conflict was an energy source your team could harness to produce innovative, creative, and transformational results? Invest 18 minutes learning the two magic ingredients and how you can put them to work with any team you care about.

CrisMarie Campbell and Susan Clarke have spent over 15 years working with hundreds of business leaders and their teams across many industries. Their clients call them “The Team Doctors” because of their expert, laser-like focus on the health of the team in order to get smart business results.

What makes them experts? They are a team. CrisMarie and Susan are work and life partners. Plus, they each have very different styles and approaches to conflict. What they do agree on is that conflict is healthy and a natural part of every relationship. So use it, don’t defuse it!

This post tackles conflict resolution for young people, reframing conflict as a positive force for creativity and growth. Here are the key takeaways:

• Conflict is natural. We all experience conflict, but it doesn’t have to be negative.
• Choose Curiosity Over Fear: Fear often leads us to avoid conflict. Instead, embrace curiosity about different perspectives.
• Vulnerability is strength: Be willing to share your true feelings and ideas, even if it’s uncomfortable.
• Conflict Fuels Innovation: When handled constructively, conflict can spark creativity and lead to better solutions.

The post uses a personal story about Susan’s experience with a near-death illness to illustrate the power of vulnerability. It also includes a business case study of a company that used vulnerability and curiosity to resolve conflict and achieve success.

Here are some ways you can adapt this post for young people:

• Use relatable examples: Instead of business scenarios, use examples from friendships, school projects, or hobbies.
• Focus on communication: emphasize active listening, clear communication, and respecting others’ opinions.
• Offer practical tips: Provide simple steps that young people can take to approach conflict constructively.
• Keep it positive and empowering: Focus on the benefits of resolving conflict and working together.

You know you are capable of amazing things, so the next time you get stuck in conflict, remember to diffuse it, because you too can change the world with a one-team, one-relationship, one conflict at a time!

Susan Clarke