Much of this course has discussed how to recognize signs of stress in others, how to provide support with empathy, and how to engage professional support to those in need. These actions contribute to fostering a connected and supportive work environment and reducing the likelihood of violence. A key element is paying attention to those around you so you are aware of when they may be experiencing stressors, and engaging them with empathy, whether they are exhibiting indicators or not.
Another critical element to having a connected and supportive work environment is to have productive conflict. Conflict will happen at some point – it cannot be avoided entirely – so it is important to keep conflicts productive, rather than destructive, so that everyone involved can move forward in a positive direction.
Characteristics of productive conflicts include:
- Showing curiosity for the other party’s interests
- Working towards the greatest good for the greatest number
- Clearing up unexpressed misunderstandings, and
- Identifying and addressing any underlying conflicts
The ultimate goal of a productive conflict is to better understand others’ perspectives.
You may have to work to keep a conflict from becoming destructive, especially if it is an emotional topic. You want to avoid:
- Behaviors that expand and escalate conflict
- A focus on retaliation or hurting
- A focus on winning
Conflicts should not be seen as having winners and losers; productive conflict resolution will avoid pitting people against one another so everyone can feel a sense of resolution at the end of the conversation.
Now that we have reviewed the common indicators associated with active shooters, possible interventions, and how you can foster a more supportive and connected work environment, let’s recap the key points of this training.
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