Relacja pomiędzy wymiarami kultury, a ich znaczeniem dla wyboru stylu w konflikcie.

Abstract

This paper proposes a broad perspective for studying the influence of cultural dimensions and their influence on the process of choosing conflict management styles Definition of both culture and that of conflict are presented. Analytical review of research on the conflict styles and their relation with dimensions of culture are presented in this article. Within the paper following cultural dimensions are considered in the context of conflict management styles: individualism and collectivism, high and low power distance as well as high and low uncertainty avoidance. All models of cultural dimensions are considered within the cultural dimensions framework of Hofstede (1981). In case of individualism there is preference for an avoiding style of conflict management and in collectivist cultures typical choice is that of compromising and obliging conflict style. In case of high power distance avoiding conflict style is likely to be chosen by members of High Power cultures. Few studies cover the problem of power distance and conflict style preference, however, we may assume that the individual will chose conflict style that allows him to maintain either low or high power distance typical for his own culture. Finally the paper shows connection of low uncertainty avoidance and the choice of collaborative and compromising conflict styles. The implications of conflict resolution styles across cultures for the future research and implementation in organizations as well as in international relations are discussed.