How does TeamSTEPPS propose teams to manage conflict?

TeamSTEPPS emphasizes the importance of utilizing emotional intelligence and communication skills in managing conflict within teams. This involves recognizing and understanding one’s own emotions and the emotions of others, which is crucial for effective interpersonal interactions. Emotional intelligence facilitates empathy, enabling team members to see situations from different perspectives and to respond appropriately to the emotional states of their colleagues.

Effective conflict management also relies heavily on strong communication skills. Clear and open dialogue allows team members to express their concerns and feelings about conflicts respectfully and constructively, promoting collaboration rather than divisiveness. By fostering an environment where issues can be discussed openly, teams can identify underlying causes of conflict and work together to resolve them efficiently.

In contrast, avoiding confrontation can lead to unresolved issues that fester over time, potentially escalating conflicts further. Escalating issues to managers prematurely may undermine team dynamics and prevent the team from developing its problem-solving capabilities. Relying strictly on established hierarchies can limit open communication and discourage team members from addressing conflicts collaboratively, which is contrary to the TeamSTEPPS philosophy of teamwork and shared leadership.