Conflict Resolution

Tools for Navigating Conflict

Conflict is a normal part of learning, working, and living in a community. Whether you are a student, staff member, or faculty member, disagreements and misunderstandings happen.

This page provides practical tools and reflection prompts to help you think through your situation and determine your next step.

We encourage you to begin with these strategies. If you try them and still feel stuck, additional support is available.

Steps to Conflict resolution

Step 1: Reflect Before You Respond

Taking a few minutes to slow down can prevent conflict from escalating.

Clarify the Situation

  • What specifically happened?
  • What behaviors or actions are concerning to me?
  • What assumptions might I be making?

Identify Your Goal

  • What outcome would feel productive or fair?
  • Do I want resolution, understanding, boundaries, or acknowledgement?
  • Am I ready to have a conversation?

Consider Perspective

  • How has this situation affected me?
  • How might the other person view the situation?
  • Is there missing information?

Step 2: Use Communication Tools

Use “I” Statements

  • Focus on your experience rather than assigning blame.
  • Instead of:  “You never listen.”
  • Try:  “I feel frustrated when I do not feel heard during meetings.”

Practice Active Listening

  • Listen to understand, not to respond.
  • Reflect back what you hear.
  • Ask clarifying questions.

Choose the Right Setting

  • Avoid addressing sensitive matters over text or social media.
  • Consider whether an in-person or live conversation would be more productive.
  • If emotions are high, take time before responding.

Prepare Ahead of Time

  • Write down your key points.
  • Focus on behaviors, not character.
  • Be clear about what you are requesting

Step 3: Assess the Complexity

Some conflicts are straightforward. Others involve additional factors such as:

  • Repeated behavior
  • Power differences (e.g., supervisor/student)
  • UNC Charlotte Policy considerations
  • Harassment or discrimination concerns

If the situation feels complicated, overwhelming, or unclear, you do not have to navigate it alone.

immediate safety concerns

In the case of an emergency or immediate danger, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to call 911 or contact Police & Public Safety at 704-687-2200 or via the LiveSafe app. 

For situations involving discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or sexual or interpersonal misconduct, please visit the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX website for more information.

Report An Incident