Conflict-averse

Conflict-averse describes a personality or behavior pattern characterized by a strong dislike of conflict, disagreement, or confrontation. Individuals displaying conflict-averse tendencies actively avoid situations that could lead to arguments, tension, or disputes. They prioritize maintaining harmony and avoiding negative emotions or strained relationships, often going to significant lengths to circumvent any form of contention. This may manifest as a reluctance to express dissenting opinions, a tendency to concede easily in debates, or a preference for indirect communication to avoid upsetting others. The desire for peace and tranquility drives their actions.

Conflict-averse meaning with examples

• Sarah, being conflict-averse, agreed with her colleague's proposal, even though she had reservations, to avoid a debate. Her primary goal was to keep the workplace environment positive and maintain friendly relationships. This tendency caused her to often avoid voicing her own ideas, leading to some frustrations later on.
• John, known to be conflict-averse, consistently avoided offering feedback to his team, even when they needed it. He prioritized maintaining team cohesion over addressing issues, causing inefficiencies. Although appreciated for his calm demeanor, his approach hindered the team's growth due to the lack of constructive criticism.
• The mediator found the client, a conflict-averse individual, difficult to negotiate with. She would yield to the other party's demands quickly to prevent escalating the situation. The mediator had to work diligently to make her feel comfortable enough to assert her real needs, despite not wanting conflict.
• Maria is conflict-averse; she frequently changed her travel plans to accommodate her friends, even at her own expense. Her desire for everyone to feel included motivated her, but this would lead to a problem for her when she was tired from having no downtime. She really struggled when anyone was upset, causing her anxiety.
• As a conflict-averse person, David always tried to diffuse tense situations with humor or by changing the subject. He'd rather be seen as agreeable than risk causing any kind of argument. The goal was to avoid any disruption. His goal was to keep the atmosphere light and pleasant, even in difficult situations.