Peacebuilding &conflict transformation A ... - Peaceworkafrica

to be independent. The opposing parties do not share or divide tasks, buteverything is done individually so that no one relies on the other side.Additionally, there is a cultural component in any conflict whether it plays a centralrole or influences relationships. Culture shapes attitudes, perceptions, and behaviours— the way things are done. Although culture does not cause conflict, it affectsthe way one names, frames, blames or attempts to deal with conflicts. Generally oneonly becomes aware of one’s own culture and its effects when meeting or being confrontedwith culture(s) that differ from one’s own.Bear in mind that at the bottom of conflicts lie the various differences betweenpeople. But, it is not the differences that make a conflict become constructive ordestructive, it is the way one responds to them.2.2 Defining social conflictA conflict is different from a problem, disagreement, dispute or violence. The followingwill clarify the content and understanding of conflict as it is used throughoutthis book.A problem 3 …▶ … refers to a situation, condition, or issue that is yet to be resolved.▶ … is an obstacle to achieving a particular goal, objective or purpose.▶ … exists when an individual becomes aware of a significant differencebetween what actually is and what is desired between one or more individual.Examples▶ Martin can’t finish his work in time; he has a problem with his workload.▶ Cyprian can’t fix a broken chair; he has a problem with furniture.▶ Rosa can’t decide which of the two events of her friends that arehappening at the same time she prefers to attend; she has a problemdeciding or prioritizing her time.A problem turns into a conflict when a disruption on the relational level takes placeand negative emotions arise. For instance, the last example could turn into a conflictwhen one of the friends does not accept Rosa’s decision and is angry or disappointedwith her.We do not use the word conflict when there is simply a disagreement. This can bedescribed as a state of prolonged dispute or debate; usually concerning a matter ofopinion between people.2 . S o c i a l c o n f l i c t 97