Working Toward a Positive End (of the Good Life): Third Party Resolution of Family Conflict

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session and Reception
  In Interactive Paper Session: Organizational Communication Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

Processual models of conflict management have been utilized to study all stages of conflict, from the initial cause of conflict all the way through to the final resolution of the conflict. One of the ways that processual models can be applicable is studying how organizational actors employ these methods with individuals who are still important to the function of the organization, but are not familiar with it, such as visitors to a hospital. The focus of this paper is the role of the organizational actors who deal with end-of-life issues on a daily basis, specifically on how they manage conflict between family members of patients. Using qualitative interviews with nurses, patient advocates, social workers, and chaplains (n = 78), many individuals deal with conflict between family members every day. The ways that these organizational actors manage conflict is by reframing, refocusing, referring, and reconciling.

Authors

• Paula Hopeck, Stephen F. Austin State University

• Tyler R. Harrison, University of Miami