Confrontation is when a disagreement between people creates an argumentative situation because they do not agree on something.
These situations are often hostile and can become aggressive if not dealt with sensibly.
The people involved can feel attacked and become defensive, or not get their point across, which causes frustration.
Emotions can run high during a confrontation, these include: anger, frustration and guilt.
Confrontation isn't always bad:
It can resolve things you felt were a problem
Relieve anger and frustration
Change the situation for the better
Improve relationships
Help other people see things from a different point of view
Standing up for yourself can give you confidence too
Responding to confrontation:
Stay calm
If they shout, don't shout back
If it's too heated walk away and continue at another time
Explain to them that you would both not be able to effectively get your points across when emotions are so high
Listen to the other person
State your point factually
Don't just vent your frustration
Know what you want to come from the confrontation - solution
Move to a goal, what would you like to happen in the future
It's not about blame, it's about finding a resolution
Tips:
Know the facts
Think positive, think conversation not argument
Take a deep breath
Breathe slower - lowers your heatbeat and adrenaline
Explain what you want out of the conversation, be prepared to compromise
What triggers your anger - prepare a new response to the trigger
Let the person know they are being confrontational - "why are you being so agrressive?", "why are you shouting?"
Don't get sucked into an argument
Useful links:
The Iceberg Theory of Confrontation: 90 percent of a confrontation takes place below our rational awareness -
http://westsidetoastmasters.com/article_reference/how_to_handle_confrontation.html
8 bulletproof ways to help confrontations work for you and the person you're dealing with -http://www.uncommonhelp.me/articles/fear-of-confrontation/
Confrontation for sissies - http://www.oprah.com/spirit/How-to-Take-the-Fight-Out-of-Confrontation
Steven Aitchison's 7 tips for dealing with confrontation -http://www.stevenaitchison.co.uk/blog/7-tips-for-dealing-with-confrontation/
EHow - how to handle confrontation -
http://www.ehow.co.uk/how_2204451_handle-confrontation.html