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Age differences in responses to conflict in the workplace
Mark H Davis1, Linda A Kraus, Sal Capobianco
1Department of Psychology, Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, Florida 33711-4700, USA. davismh@eckerd.edu
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|August 29, 2009
Summary
Older adults use fewer destructive conflict tactics at work, preferring nonconfrontational responses like yielding. Contrary to expectations, age did not significantly impact constructive conflict resolution or reduce active destructive behaviors in the workplace.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
- Gerontology
Background:
- Socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) explains age-related differences in interpersonal conflict, typically showing older adults use fewer destructive and more nonconfrontational responses.
- Previous research has primarily focused on conflict within intimate relationships, neglecting workplace conflict dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age differences in workplace conflict behavior.
- To test hypotheses derived from SST regarding older adults' conflict management strategies in professional settings.
Main Methods:
- Utilized behavior ratings from supervisors, peers, and subordinates.
- Analyzed data from 2513 working adults to examine the relationship between age and conflict behaviors.
Main Results:
- Older working adults were rated as more likely to employ nonconfrontational conflict responses (e.g., yielding, delaying).
- No consistent age differences were found in constructive conflict resolution efforts.
- Limited evidence supported the hypothesis that older adults engage in less active destructive workplace conflict.
Conclusions:
- Findings partially support SST in the workplace, particularly regarding increased nonconfrontational responses among older adults.
- The theory's predictions regarding reduced destructive behavior require further investigation in professional contexts.
- Age may influence conflict approach, but not uniformly across all conflict management strategies in the workplace.
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