Which conflict-resolution technique involves downplaying the conflict?

Which conflict-resolution technique involves downplaying the conflict?

• A. Bargaining
• B. Direct approach
• C. Retreat
• D. De-emphasis

Answer: (D)

Downplaying a disagreement is a conflict-resolution approach that aims to reduce tension by treating the dispute as less central. De-emphasis does exactly this: it minimizes the prominence of the conflict, shifts the discussion toward shared goals or neutral topics, and may reframe issues to avoid escalation. This can be useful when relationships matter more than winning a particular point or when immediate resolution isn’t possible. By contrast, bargaining focuses on exchanging concessions and explicit issue discussion; a direct approach tackles the disagreement openly and clearly; retreat involves withdrawing from the interaction, which is more about avoidance than deliberately downplaying the issue.

Downplaying a disagreement is a conflict-resolution approach that aims to reduce tension by treating the dispute as less central. De-emphasis does exactly this: it minimizes the prominence of the conflict, shifts the discussion toward shared goals or neutral topics, and may reframe issues to avoid escalation. This can be useful when relationships matter more than winning a particular point or when immediate resolution isn’t possible. By contrast, bargaining focuses on exchanging concessions and explicit issue discussion; a direct approach tackles the disagreement openly and clearly; retreat involves withdrawing from the interaction, which is more about avoidance than deliberately downplaying the issue.