Conflict prevention skills help keep conflict from fully developing and becoming destructive. Core values associated with prevention were presented, and we encouraged you to examine your own his- tory in conflict and identify what might be changed. We presented information on identifying conflict cycles as they unfold, with change options given for each stage. We discussed the warning signs for avoidance and escalation spirals, giving specific sug- gestions for what to do in each case. Post-conflict assessments, contracts, and agreements were pre- sented as prevention activities. Problem solving was discussed as a further prevention technique. Making personal changes in conflict necessitates addressing habitual relationship and identity issues for yourself, and then letting go of anger and resentment.

We gave detailed communication suggestions for those who habitually avoid or escalate conflict. Finally, conflict prevention is essentially the same set of skills as excellent communication in general. As you improve and add to your communication choices, conflict will become less negative for you and more productive when it does arise, and you will give great benefits to those around you.