Workplace conflict management in small businesses in Uganda: a case study of Pinkstone Trading SMC Ltd

Abstract

This paper examines the types and causes of workplace conflict. The study found out that like other terms, conflict generates contradictions and leaves many scholars quite uncertain about its meaning and relevance; and how best to deal with it. Conflicts are inevitable in human life as well as inevitable in organizations or even between nations. The study also discovered that conflicts occur at workplace because of discrimination, leadership style, scarcity of common resources, etc. If a conflict is not well and timely managed, it can lead to low productivity or service delivery.

The study also discovered that conflict can sometimes produce positive result, if well managed. Thus, not all conflict situations are bad. To ensure that the causes of conflicts are addressed as soon as they are noticed much effort should be exercised. This paper also concludes that early recognition and paying attention to the conflicting parties and negotiation between parties involved in the conflict should be set in place in resolving conflicts while force or intimidation should never be used to resolve conflicting parties since these can only be counterproductive.

KEY WORDS: Causes, Types, Remedies, Workplace, Conflict, Concept.