Conflict resolution skills are a vital part of temporarily or permanently resolving a conflict before it can escalate. Which term fits this process?

• A. Negotiating
• B. Resolving
• C. Mediation
• D. Escalating

Answer: (B)

Conflict resolution skills are all about bringing a dispute to a close so tension doesn’t grow. The term that fits this process—temporarily or permanently settling a disagreement before it escalates—is resolving. It describes both taking action to address the issue and achieving a settlement or closure, which aligns with the goal of preventing further escalation.

Negotiating is a method used to reach an agreement, and mediation is a facilitated form of negotiation with a neutral third party; both are tools within the broader act of resolving. Escalating is the opposite, referring to the conflict becoming more intense. So, resolving best captures the overall aim of the process.