Facilitating Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable challenge in student organizations, arising from diverse backgrounds, communication breakdowns, and personal stressors, which requires careful, impartial navigation by advisors. Advisors should approach conflict resolution by remaining unemotional, asking probing questions, allowing students to develop their own solutions, and maintaining consistency with past precedents while focusing on creating teachable moments. The key to managing conflict is effective communication, equipping student leaders with strategies like addressing issues directly, praising publicly, criticizing privately, and separating individuals from their positions.