Session 2 Kickstarter

Remember the word you selected at the beginning of this session to describe the way you handle conflict? Which of these selections most aligns with the word you chose?

  • Win: prove I’m right and win the argument
  • Yield: give in to preserve harmony
  • Withdraw: avoid conflict by leaving or shutting down
  • Resolve: work together to find a solution

Ephesians 4:15 describes “speaking the truth in love.” Which part is more difficult for you?

speaking the truth

OR

in love

Talk with your spouse about why you lean toward this.

Which patterns of dealing with conflict were present in your home of origin? 

  • Needing to win
  • Arguing articulately
  • Arguing passionately
  • Stonewalling (silent; impassive)
  • Storming out of the room
  • Passivity
  • Agreeing to keep the (often fake) peace
  • Withdrawing
  • Sarcastic
  • Cutting
  • Loud
  • Relentless
  • Avoiding
  • Cannot overlook an offense
  • Must have the last word
  • Yelling
  • Physical elements to fighting (throwing things, hitting)
  • Backbiting
  • Passive-aggression (staying calm, but manipulating with words or actions)
  • Bringing in others for backup who weren’t involved

 

What insights, if any, do you gather from this list about your own patterns in resolving conflict?