Peace Day Tips

Here are some tips to help you maintain peace every day.

IS THERE A CONFLICT? TAKE CONTROL

The high level of crime and violence remains one of Jamaica's "biggest problems." Many of the murders committed are domestic or reprisal killings which are rooted in the increasing inability of Jamaicans to resolve disputes amicably.

Following, are a number conflict management tips which are aimed at helping people to become more aware that conflicts can be resolved peacefully.

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT/ RESOLUTION

Conflicts are normal. Conflict is a fact of life that we must learn to handle as best as we possibly can.

• Identify the root of the problem. This will assist you to make better choices when responding to issues or concerns raised.
• Listen to the other person's point of view and clarify your differences. In order to do this, you should try to avoid the barriers to effective listening such as noise, bias, preconceived notions and internal dialogue.
• Communication to highlight misunderstandings before they become insurmountable problems. To successfully resolve conflicts, parties must focus on the objectives and have a clear idea of the outcomes they would like to achieve.
• Open your mind to other possibilities. Realise that your point of view may not be completely right or that you may be entirely wrong, therefore you should try to think first and speak later.
• Be informed. Find out if there is additional information or other points of view that might be helpful.
• Be aware of how you respond. Your reaction can either de-escalate a highly emotional situation or you may add fuel to the fires. Try not to respond with anger, especially when the other person is responding angrily. Actions speak louder than words. "Watch your body language".
• Be respectful in the way you respond. Avoid using language that insults, belittles or makes the other party angry.
• Be flexible. Try to restate the other person's position and consider circumstances under which you could support the other person's point of view
• Ask the other party what their suggested solution would be and then offer your own.
• Offer concessions: "I could support what you propose If." Compromise. No one wants to lose but compromising can mean that you win and so does the other party.
• Try TO ATTACK THE PROBLEM and NOT THE PERSON. There should be no winners or losers. Just a solution.
• Remember that you may not get all you want. Try to support, accept and live with a solution.

Sources: Lin Grensing-Pophal - 'Resolving conflicts: It's easy as 1-2-3'. Loren G. Edelstein - 'Better Yet'. (resolving differences) Beblon Parks - 'Got a conflict with a colleague? Here's how to resolve it now!' Compiled by: The Social Conflict and Legal Reform Project (SCLR).

Conflict management tips for parents

1. To effectively manage anger and family conflicts, parents should be aware of and identify their style of dealing with conflicts and then recognize other options.

2. Equip yourself with as many tools or methods of coping with conflicts as you can.

3. Children live what they learn. Try to be a good role model for your child.

4. Always try to enhance your child's self-esteem.

5. Involve your child in family discussions and decisions. Give them the tools to talk trough situations instead of resorting to fighting.

6. Allot special times to give your child your undivided attention.

7. Encourage your children to express their feelings of anger or hostility, sadness or happiness. You should also share your feelings with your children.

8. Parents may not have all the answers. Seek help from the church, school or other community organisations.

9. Always show your children that you love them.

Source: The PTA Parenting Guide: Programmes and Resources. Compiled by: The Social Conflict & Legal Reform Project (SCLR).