A Comparative Analysis of Some Conditions and Consequences of Intra- Organizational Conflict

This investigation made a comparative analysis of some of the determinants and consequences of intra-organizational conflict in six organizations. A test of three hypotheses about the structural and interpersonal processes generating intra-organizational conflict partially supports each one. The findings also indicate that intra-organizational conflict does not inevitably have negative consequences for the performance of an organization; its effects are significantly influenced by certain techniques of leadership and organizational control employed to manage the conflict. Clagett G. Smith is associate professor of social psychology in the Center for Advanced Study in Organization Science, The University of Wisconsin.