Conflicts are an inevitable part of our daily lives. Since no two people see things exactly the same way, disagreements will most certainly arise at some point. Conflict is simply a difference of opinion and is considered a part of our daily lives. There are many forms of conflict and not all are considered bad. This article will discuss the causes of conflict, different types of conflict, and obstacles to conflict. According to Communication Research Associates, conflict is a condition of imbalance within an individual (Communication Research Associates, 2005, p. 178). Keep in mind that just as conflict has disadvantages, it also has several advantages. In order to identify and resolve a conflict, we must first understand its causes. Conflict styles can be classified as productive; which have a positive influence on one or all parties involved, destructive; which have a negative influence on one or all parties involved or on competition; whereby “one party achieves victory through force, superior skill, or dominance at the expense of the desires of the other party” (Schermerhon, Hunt, & Osborne, 2002, p. 134–135). Conflict can arise from a variety of causes, including: poor communication, personality conflicts, heightened ego, unresolved past issues, stress, and a breach of trust by one or more parties. All causes listed fall into one or more of the seven conflict types discussed later in this document. The underlying stress and tension is a conflict waiting to happen. Often people keep things bottled up inside and the slightest provocation sets them off. If the recipient doesn't know how to handle the conflict, then their first instinct will go to the middle of the paper. This type of obstacle, if intensified, can destroy any hope of rational communication. Unmanaged or unresolved conflict. can quickly degenerate. It is therefore important to recognize and resolve conflicts as early as possible. In doing so, the risks of escalation decrease and the chances of reaching a workable and constructive solution increase. The best solution to conflict is to recognize it, understand it, keep a positive attitude towards it and know that avoiding it does not make it go away. Works cited by Communication Research Associates. (2005). Communicate! A Workbook for Interpersonal Communication (7th ed.). Long Beach: Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company. Schermerhon, J., HUNT, J. and Osborne, R. (2002). Organizational Behavior (7th ed.). Windle, R. and Warren, S. (nd). Conflict 101. Retrieved June 5, 2010 from http://www.directionservice.org/cadre