Which conflict style uses power and results in a win/lose outcome, with one side imposing a solution?

Which conflict style uses power and results in a win/lose outcome, with one side imposing a solution?

• A. Avoiding - Leave well enough alone
• B. Competing - Might make right
• C. Collaborating - Two heads are better than one
• D. Compromising - Split the difference

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how asserting power to impose a solution creates a win/lose outcome in conflict. The style that uses power and aims to win at the other party’s expense, often by insisting on your own solution and exercising authority, fits this description. This is the competing approach: you push for your position, and others may have little or no influence over the outcome. It can resolve issues quickly when quick decisions are essential or when you have legitimate authority, but it often strains relationships and shuts down input from others. Avoiding involves not addressing the issue at all, which delays resolution and doesn’t impose a solution. Collaborating seeks a joint, mutually beneficial solution, not a single side imposing a decision. Compromising aims for a middle ground, with both sides giving up something, so it’s not purely about one side forcing a win.

The main idea being tested is how asserting power to impose a solution creates a win/lose outcome in conflict. The style that uses power and aims to win at the other party’s expense, often by insisting on your own solution and exercising authority, fits this description. This is the competing approach: you push for your position, and others may have little or no influence over the outcome. It can resolve issues quickly when quick decisions are essential or when you have legitimate authority, but it often strains relationships and shuts down input from others.

Avoiding involves not addressing the issue at all, which delays resolution and doesn’t impose a solution. Collaborating seeks a joint, mutually beneficial solution, not a single side imposing a decision. Compromising aims for a middle ground, with both sides giving up something, so it’s not purely about one side forcing a win.