Which strategy resolves a conflict as both parties agree to drop some of the issues causing the conflict?

• A. Withdraw/ Avoid
• B. Smooth/ Accommodate
• C. Force/Direct
• D. Compromise/Reconcile

Answer: (D)

When a conflict is resolved by both sides giving up some issues to reach an agreement, the approach is compromise and reconcile. This method centers on mutual concessions, finding a middle ground that both parties can live with, so the relationship remains workable and forward progress is made. It requires dialogue, negotiation, and a willingness to adjust positions, rather than insisting on all demands being met. In contrast, avoidance delays addressing the problem, smoothing focuses on preserving harmony at the expense of addressing underlying tensions, and forcing imposes a solution regardless of the other party’s needs. So the essence here is that both sides drop some issues to reach a mutually acceptable resolution.