Disagreements within groups are common and often a healthy way of building cohesiveness, this is because if people disagree on a particular point they will have the opportunity to explain why and perhaps offer alternative solutions to the problems of the group.

Conflict and further discussion can be a good way of reflecting and clarifying the aims and objectives of the group and can enhance understanding by taking in the viewpoints of all group members.  Conflict only becomes a problem when comments become personal, towards an individual or sub-group of individuals, or discussion takes up too much time to the detriment of the group’s purpose.

Strong group leadership and cohesiveness will enable disagreements to become positive for the group and the individuals within it.  The following example describes how to prevent disagreement leading to more serious problems which may be disruptive to the group.

An individual in a group may challenge what is being said by the leader or by other group members.  This can lead to disruption within the group, affecting the progress and overall emotional state of the other members.  Any sort of challenge or disagreement needs to be discussed openly, especially if there seems to be a valid reason for it.  The person in disagreement should be encouraged to express their views in a positive way with the rest of the group.  If the situation cannot be resolved in the group setting, the leader or facilitator may wish to discuss the issues which concern the individual away from the rest of the group.  Alternatively, the disagreement could be dealt with at a specific time and discussed by the group, so that the group negotiates some form of resolution.

Conflict resolution in groups will depend, in part, on the leadership style and team roles of the group members.