, PLEASE USE THIS DOCUMENT AS A GUIDE TO ANSWERS YOUR ASSIGNMENTS
POL2602 ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2026
MEMO
DUE DATE: 30 MARCH 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Relationship Conflicts (10)
Relationship conflict refers to interpersonal disagreements that arise from negative emotions,
personality differences, mistrust and tension between individuals in a group. Unlike task-related
disagreements, relationship conflict is largely emotional and focuses on personal issues rather than the
objectives of the organisation. These conflicts often develop when individuals feel disrespected,
excluded or unfairly treated by their colleagues. Factors such as poor communication,
misunderstandings, jealousy and perceived favouritism can intensify relationship conflict and lead to
hostility within a team. According to De Dreu and Weingart (2003), relationship conflict is particularly
harmful in organisations because it weakens cooperation, reduces trust and negatively affects team
performance.
In the scenario provided, relationship conflict could arise because some team members believe that
personal relationships are influencing decision-making within the project team. When individuals
perceive that certain colleagues are being favoured due to friendships or informal alliances, they may
begin to feel marginalised or undervalued. This perception can lead to resentment and suspicion, which
damages professional relationships within the team. As tensions increase, communication may become
less open and collaborative, and individuals may start avoiding interaction with certain colleagues.
Consequently, the project team may struggle to work together effectively because interpersonal
disagreements overshadow the task at hand. In the long term, relationship conflicts can create a toxic
work environment in which employees prioritise personal grievances rather than organisational goals.
1.2 Value Conflicts (10)
Value conflict occurs when individuals or groups hold fundamentally different beliefs, principles or
priorities regarding what is important, ethical or appropriate in a particular situation. Values are deeply
rooted in an individual’s upbringing, culture, personal experiences and social background. Because
values influence how people interpret events and make decisions, disagreements may arise when
POL2602 ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2026
MEMO
DUE DATE: 30 MARCH 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Relationship Conflicts (10)
Relationship conflict refers to interpersonal disagreements that arise from negative emotions,
personality differences, mistrust and tension between individuals in a group. Unlike task-related
disagreements, relationship conflict is largely emotional and focuses on personal issues rather than the
objectives of the organisation. These conflicts often develop when individuals feel disrespected,
excluded or unfairly treated by their colleagues. Factors such as poor communication,
misunderstandings, jealousy and perceived favouritism can intensify relationship conflict and lead to
hostility within a team. According to De Dreu and Weingart (2003), relationship conflict is particularly
harmful in organisations because it weakens cooperation, reduces trust and negatively affects team
performance.
In the scenario provided, relationship conflict could arise because some team members believe that
personal relationships are influencing decision-making within the project team. When individuals
perceive that certain colleagues are being favoured due to friendships or informal alliances, they may
begin to feel marginalised or undervalued. This perception can lead to resentment and suspicion, which
damages professional relationships within the team. As tensions increase, communication may become
less open and collaborative, and individuals may start avoiding interaction with certain colleagues.
Consequently, the project team may struggle to work together effectively because interpersonal
disagreements overshadow the task at hand. In the long term, relationship conflicts can create a toxic
work environment in which employees prioritise personal grievances rather than organisational goals.
1.2 Value Conflicts (10)
Value conflict occurs when individuals or groups hold fundamentally different beliefs, principles or
priorities regarding what is important, ethical or appropriate in a particular situation. Values are deeply
rooted in an individual’s upbringing, culture, personal experiences and social background. Because
values influence how people interpret events and make decisions, disagreements may arise when
