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We Can't Go On Like This: Frame Changes in Intractable Conflicts

2003; Cambridge University Press; Volume: 5; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1017/s1466046603035646

1466-0474

Linda L. Putnam, Guy Burgess, Rebecca Royer,

Conflict Management and Negotiation

This article focuses on the definition and causes of intractable conflicts, particularly on why some conflicts become longstanding and elude resolution. Using examples from environmental disputes, this article explores ways that parties, issues, and organizational systems contribute to and perpetuate intractable conflicts. These factors are reinforced through conflict patterns characterized by escalation, polarization, and explosive attacks on opponents. Although intractable conflicts are difficult to manage, ignoring them only perpetuates the problem. In this article, we provide steps for entering into protracted conflicts, ones that present opportunities for environmental practitioners to help parties interpret their situations differently. These suggestions serve as incremental steps, aimed at unraveling the complexities and changing the disputants' frames and options for managing the conflict.