Cooperation and Conflict (Midterms)

Cooperation

This occurs when individuals or groups work together toward a shared goal. It relies on trust, mutual benefit, and positive relationships.

Social interdependent theory

This theory explains that cooperation depends on how individuals or groups are connected or interdependent with one another.

Interdependence

This means mutual reliance or connection between people, groups, or things.

Positive Interdependence

This benefits everyone together.

Negative Interdependence

This refers to one person’s gain causes another’s loss.

Reciprocity

Helping others with the understanding that help will be returned.

Initial request

This refers to asking for help without knowing if the person will agree.

Reciprocal action

What is it called when the person helps you and shows teamwork and kindness.

Expectation of reciprocity 

The person may now expect that you will help her in the future if she needs it. What analysis is this?

Building Trust

Continued exchanges of help build trust and strengthen cooperation. What analysis is this?

Positive outcome

This both benefit—work becomes easier, relationships improve, and teamwork grows stronger.

Perceived scarce resources 

This conflict often happens when people believe that resources such as time, money, or materials are limited, even when that may not be true.

Communication Breakdown

Miscommunication—or the absence of communication—is one of the most common causes of conflict.

Fairness

Ensuring equal treatment and balanced sharing of benefits.

Reciprocity and fairness

Norms for Cooperation— Societies promote cooperation through norms such as:

Negotiation, Compromise, and mediation 

Norms for Conflict Resolution— Social norms also guide how people resolve disagreements. Common strategies include:

Negotiation

It is a process of finding a solution that satisfies both sides.

Compromise

It is the result of the process in which each side gives up something to reach an agreement.

Mediation/mediator

This refers to a neutral person or process that helps both sides find a resolution.