Why Won’t You Listen to Me? Understanding People, Conflict, and People in Conflict

MLD 257M Subject & Catalog Number

Description

Every day conflict destroys families, organizations, and nations. Yet, some amount of disagreement is an inevitable part of our social lives and is required for both wise personal decision-making and even the functioning of democracy. In this course, we will work to understand the psychology of interpersonal disagreement, how it turns into conflict, and what to do about it. Based on academic insights from the social sciences as well as the guidance of expert practitioners, this course will offer students both a better understanding of the science of disagreement and conflict, as well as practical tools for managing such situations. At the conclusion of the course, students will have learned frameworks and concepts for thinking and communicating about conflict and have advanced their skills around disagreeing constructively both in their personal and professional relationships.

The course pedagogy will feature a mix of lecture, discussions, small group activities and simulations to give students the opportunity to both understand the academic research in this area and apply it to their own behavior. Given the interactive and discussion-based nature of the course, attendance at all sessions is mandatory.