One of the most significant modern theories in the study of human conflicts. Deutsch considered conflicts between individuals and groups from the point of view of the relationship between cooperation and competition. Deutsch believes that the nature of conflict and its outcome depend on the context in which it occurs and whether the parties pursue the goals of cooperation or competition. In Deutsch’s view, conflict is not necessarily a negative phenomenon; rather, it can lead to constructive or destructive consequences, depending on the way of management and the intentions behind the conflict behavior. To clarify this issue, Deutsch divided conflicts into two main types:
1) Cooperative conflict: occurs when the goals of the parties are interrelated or compatible, and positive competition leads to mutually beneficial solutions. This type of conflict is based on open communication, trust, and the desire for a fair solution to the problem. Example: A team solves a common problem in such a way that everyone benefits from the final solution. 2) Competitive conflict: occurs when the goals of the parties contradict each other, and each of the parties seeks to achieve its own benefit at the expense of the other. Example: a dispute between two companies for a certain market, where each of the parties seeks to control the largest share, without paying attention to the other. The main features of conflict according to Deutsch:1) Focus on the goal. Conflict is defined by whether the goals are complementary (cooperative) or conflicting (competitive).
2) Impact on relationships. Cooperative conflict strengthens relationships and bonds, while competitive conflict weakens trust and leads to disagreements.
3) Dependence on initial intentions and behavior. The outcome of the conflict depends on the intentions and behavior of the parties in the fight against stress.
4) Variability. Competitive conflict can be transformed into cooperative conflict through effective management strategies.
5) Dynamism. Conflict is not static, but changes depending on the environment, resources, and social interaction between the parties.