Conflict and Listening
This study aims to determine if there is a notable correlation between listening styles, as originally researched by Bodie, Worthington, and Gearhart (2013) and conflict behavior strategies, as researched by Putnam and Wilson (1982). Bodie et al. (2013) explained that the primary purpose of listening is to connect with others and their emotions in attempt to understand them better. Therefore, it is valuable to understand the correlation between listening and conflict, as listening may be used as a powerful tool when handling conflict. We originally expected that relational listeners would be solution-oriented or non-confrontational, analytical listeners would be solution-oriented, critical listeners would be solution-oriented, and task oriented listeners would be control-oriented. We surveyed twenty-eight people through the medium of Google Forms, employing the Listening Styles Profile-Revised Instrument (LSP-R) and Organizational Communication Conflict Instrument (OCCI) in order to test the correlation between the two phenomena. Due to a limited number of participants, we were unable to draw statistically significant results through a Chi-Square. Despite statistical insignificance, the majority of participants, regardless of listening style, self-identified as solution-oriented in conflict. This study would benefit from future research with a larger number of participants.
Keywords: conflict behavior, listening styles, OCCI, LSP-R
COMM 413, Advanced Interpersonal Communication
Doyle Srader
Banquet Room, Poster #1
1 – 3 PM