Conflict avoidance is a common personality trait where individuals try to avoid confrontation or arguments with others. While it may seem harmless, it can lead to problems in relationships. Practicing assertiveness and seeking therapy can help individuals learn better communication methods.
Conflict avoidance is a personality trait in which one would rather avoid confrontation or arguments with other people and may practice various methods such as changing the subject or simply agreeing with the argumentative person as a way to avoid these conflicts. People who do this are sometimes called “nice people,” and while there’s nothing inherently wrong with trying to avoid conflict, some people find that it causes problems in relationships over time. A psychologist or therapist may be able to help an individual learn better ways to deal with conflict in a healthy way, rather than practicing conflict avoidance.
The conflict avoidance personality trait is very common, as many people prefer not to argue and simply want to “keep the peace” even at the cost to themselves. People can practice conflict avoidance in a number of ways; for example, they may simply pretend that everything is fine and refuse to acknowledge their feelings. Some of them will physically leave the room or conversation if a conflict appears to be brewing and refuse to discuss it. A more moderate tactic is to simply try to change the subject to something more pleasant. Still others will engage in passive-aggressive behavior as a method of indirectly expressing themselves and their displeasure.
One of the least healthy avoidance methods is to simply accept whatever the other person is saying, rather than defend yourself. In some situations compromise is important, of course, but many people who do end up feeling resentful or like they never get what they want. Sometimes, people who avoid conflict find themselves in relationships, romantic or platonic, with people who are very dominant and will get their way. These relationships are often doomed to fail unless communication strategies are addressed and changed.
Practicing being more assertive in arguments without being aggressive is one way to address conflict avoidance issues, as well as making sure that each person in the relationship gets a turn to speak and express themselves. Going to therapy alone or as a couple can be a very effective way to learn new communication methods that can help with this issue. Avoiding conflict at work can lead to bigger problems, as well as increased stress in one’s life. Generally, this is a learned personality behavior that can be changed with practice and patience.
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