The Five Levels of Conflict
“It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings.” Proverbs 25:2
Not all things are as they seem. This is especially true when it comes to conflict. Presenting Issues are what we see first in conflict. Root causes are the least visible and the most important sources of conflict. Responding to the surface presenting issues is a normal, human and natural reaction. Stepping back and looking for the true causes of conflict can be the key to redeeming circumstances for good. If we are willing to learn how to discipline ourselves to do this, God promises to reward even conflict experiences with good (Romans 8:28).
Levels of Conflict
In many teachings on conflict, levels of conflict can refer to different aspects of disagreement, such as conflict intensity. But here we are using levels to refer to five important domains or spheres of conflict. It is important to understand these levels because the root causes are most often hiding in one or more of these levels! The Five Levels are:
The smallest core sphere or circle is the “Intra-Personal Level.” This represents an issue that is internal to a person (e.g., spiritual, psychological, medical, etc.). Intervention strategies at this level are usually best found in counseling, coaching, discipling, and offering appropriate treatment.
The next largest circle represents conflicts involving at least two people and is labeled the “Inter-Personal Level.” Mediation and/or counseling are most commonly helpful at this level.
The next two levels, “Intra-Group” and “Inter-Group,” are distinguished by whether the conflict is located within or between groups. Multiparty mediation or facilitated problem-solving can work well here.
Finally, the outer “Structural Level” represents those issues that exist in organizational domains such as leadership, history, budgets, culture, processes, policies, and procedures, among others. Leadership action is usually required to address deficits at this level.
Why These Levels Are Important
If we respond or react only to the presenting level dynamics of the conflict, we will find ourselves experiencing only temporary peace, even if we seem to resolve the conflict initially. Until the root cause is identified and addressed, no sustainable resolution can be found. It is like putting a bandage on cancer. The intervention process to resolve root causes, once identified, is different for each of the five levels. Read more here.