Currently I am not experiencing any conflicts within my work place but can remember alt least one occasion when I have. There was a particular intern, who is no longer at the agency, who I struggled with when it came to communicating. This intern was designated a small caseload of clients, however I was the assigned clinician. I found that the intern would not communicate pertinent information involving the case. At first I thought that somehow she did not understand what information should be communicated or perhaps she was not used to working as a team. I discussed with her why we work as a team within the agency and how we must communicate with each other regarding the clients we serve. Following this conversation, there was a major incident where particular protocol was to be followed. However, once again she withheld information that needed to be made aware within our team. Since she was an intern, it was not as difficult to solve this challenge. She was given less responsibility and eventually the internship ended.
One communication conflict strategy that I learned is to share knowledge of education so that people can meet needs and expectations. I could have put more effort in to teaching this intern about the importance of communication and collaboration when working with others who also serve as supports for the clients. As well, I could have done more by helping her understand what types of information needs to be shared and documented accordingly.
Another strategy that I could have used is creating a more balanced atmosphere which would lead to open communication on an equal level. As an intern she may have felt less power in the situation and perhaps unsure of how to communicate within that role.
I believe that these strategies from the 3 R's could be applied to this conflict. Learning about conflict resolution in communication has helped me understand mistakes I have made in the past that led to negative outcomes. I will apply the skills I have learned in the future in attempt to avoid conflicts in communication.
