What is Dysfunctional Conflict?

Dysfunctional conflict is a type of conflict that damages employee relations and hinders organizational progress. It can involve behavior such as aggression, hostility, or lack of respect toward others. Dysfunctional conflicts typically involve only one issue rather than multiple points of contention, and they can quickly become heated or personal.

Conflict is a natural occurrence in any workplace. It can arise between individuals, groups, or teams. When it is functional, conflict can lead to better outcomes for the organization. However, when conflict becomes dysfunctional, it can have negative consequences for employee productivity and organizational goals.