Kutayib
5.3. Conflict resolution and debating respectfully in dilemma situations
Session Objectives
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
Understand different conflict styles and their effects on interactions.
Apply practical strategies to resolve conflicts constructively and prevent escalation.
Communicate effectively and respectfully in conflict situations.
Debate dilemmas thoughtfully, respecting others’ opinions and perspectives.
Reflect on personal conflict behavior and commit to applying learned strategies in real life.
Duration
02h 15min
Group size
Set by facilitator
Materials needed
“Angry statements”, flipchart, markers, papers, pens, scenario cards, statements printed on cards
Session Description
This session helps participants explore constructive ways to handle disagreements and express opinions respectfully. Through interactive activities and reflection, they practice effective communication, empathy, and critical thinking to manage conflicts in a positive and collaborative manner.
Duration: 20min
Group size: All together
Materials needed: Statements printed on cards
The facilitator/trainer marks one side of the room as Strongly Agree and the other side as Strongly Disagree.
The facilitator, trainer reads statements related to conflict resolution and dilemmas. - Participants position themselves along the line based on their opinion.
Invite a few to share their reasoning respectfully.
Objectives: Build awareness of personal perspectives on conflict and dilemmas. Encourage participants to express opinions respectfully and listen to others.
Duration: 30min
Group size: Groups
Materials needed: Flipchart, markers, scenario cards
The facilitator/trainer presents the 5 main conflict styles: Avoiding, competing, accommodating, compromising, collaborating.
The facilitator, trainer divides participants into small groups and assigns the same short conflict scenario.
Each group roleplays resolving the scenario using their assigned style.
Debrief in plenary: Discuss which styles were effective and why.
Objectives: Identify different conflict styles and understand their impact. Practice applying conflict resolution strategies in realistic scenarios.
Duration: 20min
Group size: Groups
Materials needed: Flipchart , markers
The facilitator/ trainer presents conflict escalation steps (e.g., disagreement → stop talking → rumors → fight).
Each group maps actions to resolve conflicts at each escalation stage on a flipchart.
Each group shares solutions in plenary.
Objectives: Analyse stages of conflict escalation. Practice proactive conflict resolution strategies to prevent escalation. Encourage creative problem-solving.
Duration: 20min
Group size: Groups
Materials needed: “Angry statements” , papers, pens
The facilitator/ trainer introduces the “I” statement methodology and gives examples to help participants understand how to reframe blame statements respectfully.
Each group draws 5–10 cards with angry or blaming statements.
Participants discuss each statement together and collaboratively rewrite them into respectful “I” statements.
Groups present their rewritten statements to their peers in plenary.
Objectives: Practice communication that reduces defensiveness. Develop skills for respectful expression of feelings and needs during conflict.
Duration: 15min
Group size: All together
The facilitator/ trainer asks guiding questions:
What did you learn about your conflict style?
How did debating respectfully feel compared to normal arguments?
What strategies will you apply in real life?
Encourage participants to share insights and personal commitments.
Objectives: Consolidate learning and reflection. Encourage personal commitment to applying conflict resolution and respectful debate skills in daily life.
Support / example:
Icebreaker: Agree – disagree:
Conflict & communication
“It’s better to stay silent than to speak up in a conflict.”
“Shouting helps to make your point stronger.”
“Apologizing first means you are weak.”
“Conflicts usually happen because people don’t listen.”
“Most conflicts come from misunderstandings, not bad intentions.”
Respect & debate
“You can disagree with someone and still respect them.”
“In a debate, the goal should be to win.”
“It’s more important to listen than to convince others.”
“Respect means never interrupting, even if you strongly disagree.”
“Respectful debates can strengthen friendships.”
Dilemma situations
“It’s impossible for everyone to be satisfied in a conflict.”
“Compromise is the best solution in any dilemma.”
“Sometimes, walking away is the best way to resolve a conflict.”
“The majority should always decide in group conflicts.”
“One person should take the final decision in a conflict.”
Personal attitudes
“I usually avoid conflict even if I’m right.”
“It’s hard to admit when I’m wrong in an argument.”
“I find it easier to talk about conflicts with friends than with family.”
“It’s better to forgive than to prove your point.”
“Conflicts can actually make relationships stronger.”
Conflict styles roleplay
Club funds allocation: Two members want to use the club budget differently: one wants sports equipment, the other wants art supplies.
Event scheduling: Members disagree on the date of an important club event because some prefer weekends and others prefer weekdays.
Team roles in a project: Two youth want to be the team leader for an upcoming project, causing tension in the group.
Resource sharing: Only one computer is available for the club, but two members need it at the same time.
Workload distribution: Some members feel others aren’t contributing enough to a club initiative, causing frustration.
Communication style conflict: One member prefers detailed planning, while another wants spontaneous action, leading to disagreement.
Decision-making method: Members argue whether decisions should be made by majority vote or consensus.
Event theme selection: Group members disagree on the theme of a youth event: one wants a fun party, the other wants a learning workshop.
Participation recognition: Some members feel that contributions aren’t fairly recognized, leading to jealousy and conflict.
Conflict between friends in the club: Two friends in the club argue over a minor issue, affecting the group’s dynamics.
Dilemma debate
Shared room conflict: Both clubs need the same room at the same time for their weekly activities. How do they decide who gets it or how to share?
Event date clash: Both clubs plan to hold their big annual event on the same day in the same hall. Which club should go first, or how can they reschedule?
Shared equipment issue: Only one set of sports equipment / projector / instruments is available, but both clubs need it at the same time. How do they manage usage fairly?
Member scheduling conflict: One active member belongs to both clubs and is required for important tasks in each at the same time. How should the clubs handle this?
“I” Statements Challenge
