ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · Sources of conflict and techniques for conflict resolution
Which of the following is a recognised dysfunctional effect of prolonged conflict between two departments?
A recognised dysfunctional effect is stronger cohesion within each department alongside distorted, stereotyped perceptions of the other department. This damages cooperation and communication between them. Creativity, clearer objectives and the exposure of weak procedures are benefits associated with functional conflict instead.
- AIncreased creativity as each department seeks to outperform the other on ideas
- BGreater clarity about each department's objectives
- CStronger cohesion within each department combined with distorted perceptions of the other departmentCorrect
- DEarly identification of weaknesses in current procedures
Explanation
Intergroup conflict often raises cohesion inside each group while hardening stereotypes and distorting views of the rival group, which harms cooperation across the organisation. The other options are typically cited as potential benefits of functional conflict, such as creativity, clarity of objectives and exposure of weaknesses.
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