ABSTRACT
Interpersonal conflicts are inherent in human relationships, potentially leading to distress and dissolution. This comprehensive review examines conflict causes, consequences, and resolution strategies through the lenses of Islamic teachings and social science theories. Integrating prophetic guidance, Quranic principles, and empirical research, this article provides a holistic understanding of conflict dynamics and effective management techniques.
INTRODUCTION
Interpersonal conflicts are ubiquitous, affecting personal and professional relationships (Bowlby, 1969; Gottman, 1999). Effective conflict resolution is crucial for maintaining relationship quality and overall well-being (Cohen et al., 2015).
ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVES ON CONFLICT RESOLUTION
1. Quran 4:35: Arbitration and reconciliation.
2. Hadith: "The best of you are those who are best in character" (Sunan Ibn Majah).
3. Sabr (Patience) and Istighfar (Seeking Forgiveness): Essential virtues in conflict resolution (Quran 3:200, 42:37).
4. Forgiveness: A fundamental Islamic value (Quran 24:22, 4:149).
SOCIAL SCIENCE THEORIES
1. Social Exchange Theory (Emerson, 1976): Relationships governed by reciprocal exchanges.
2. Attachment Theory (Bowlby, 1969): Conflict resolution styles influenced by attachment patterns.
3. Gottman's Sound Relationship House Theory (Gottman, 1999): Relationships require trust, commitment, and effective communication.
CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF CONFLICTS
Causes
1. Communication breakdown
2. Unmet expectations
3. Power struggles
4. Emotional intelligence deficits
Consequences
1. Relationship dissatisfaction
2. Emotional distress
3. Physical health implications (Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 2010).
CONFLICT RESOLUTION STRATEGIES
1. Active Listening: Understand the other's perspective (Wachtel, 2011).
2. Emotional Intelligence: Recognize and manage emotions (Goleman, 1995).
3. Problem-Solving: Collaborative approach to finding solutions (Fisher et al., 2011).
4. Mediation: Effective in resolving conflicts (McCrory, 2016).
ISLAMIC CONFLICT RESOLUTION MODELS
1. Reconciliation (Quran 4:35): Mediation and arbitration.
2. Mushawarah (Mutual Consultation): Collaborative decision-making (Quran 42:38).
3. Tawbah (Repentance): Seeking forgiveness and making amends (Quran 24:31).
CASE STUDIES AND EMPIRICAL RESEARCH
1. Couples Therapy: Evidence-based interventions (Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy).
2. Mindfulness and Self-Reflection: Enhancing emotional intelligence.
3. Islamic Counseling: Effective in resolving marital conflicts (Khan, 2017).
CONCLUSION
Effective conflict resolution requires integrating Islamic teachings and social science theories. By embracing prophetic guidance, Quranic principles, and empirical research, individuals can develop essential skills to navigate conflicts and foster fulfilling relationships.
REFERENCES
Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and Loss: Vol. 1. Attachment. New York: Basic Books.
Cohen, S., et al. (2015). Chronic stress, glucocorticoid receptor resistance, inflammation, and disease risk. PNAS, 112(16), 5935-5944.
Emerson, R. M. (1976). Social exchange theory. Annual Review of Sociology, 2, 335-362.
Fisher, R., et al. (2011). Getting to yes: Negotiating agreement without giving in. Penguin.
Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam.
Gottman, J. M. (1999). The seven principles for making marriage work. Crown.
Khan, M. A. (2017). Islamic counseling: A study of its effectiveness in resolving marital conflicts. Journal of Islamic Studies, 28(1), 53-72.
Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K., et al. (2010). Psychological stress and wound healing in humans. Neuroendocrinology, 92(1), 1-11.
McCrory, P. (2016). Mediation in conflict resolution. Journal of Conflict Resolution, 60(3), 537-555.
Quran. (Translated by Yusuf Ali). (1934).
Sunan Ibn Majah. (Translated by Abu Tahir Zubayr Ali Zai). (2013).
Wachtel, P. L. (2011). Therapeutic communication: Knowing what to say when. Guilford Press.
Cohen, S., et al. (2015). Chronic stress, glucocorticoid receptor resistance, inflammation, and disease risk. PNAS, 112(16), 5935-5944.
Emerson, R. M. (1976). Social exchange theory. Annual Review of Sociology, 2, 335-362.
Fisher, R., et al. (2011). Getting to yes: Negotiating agreement without giving in. Penguin.
Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam.
Gottman, J. M. (1999). The seven principles for making marriage work. Crown.
Khan, M. A. (2017). Islamic counseling: A study of its effectiveness in resolving marital conflicts. Journal of Islamic Studies, 28(1), 53-72.
Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K., et al. (2010). Psychological stress and wound healing in humans. Neuroendocrinology, 92(1), 1-11.
McCrory, P. (2016). Mediation in conflict resolution. Journal of Conflict Resolution, 60(3), 537-555.
Quran. (Translated by Yusuf Ali). (1934).
Sunan Ibn Majah. (Translated by Abu Tahir Zubayr Ali Zai). (2013).
Wachtel, P. L. (2011). Therapeutic communication: Knowing what to say when. Guilford Press.
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