Conflict Resolution Strategies Adopted By School Managers In Secondary Schools In Nigeria

This study investigated the strategies adopted by managers of secondary schools in Edo state of Nigeria. One hundred and twenty (120) managers of secondary schools, 25% of 480 were drawn from the three senatorial districts across the state took part in the study. The conflict resolution strategy instrument (CRSI) was used in gathering data which was analyzed with the aid of simple percentage and t-test statistics. The study found that managers of secondary schools used the conflict avoidance, smoothing, compromise and competitive strategies, ether frequently or once in a while in resolving conflicts in their schools. On the other hand, the forcing strategy was never used by the managers. The study concluded that from all indications conflict exist in every organization, including the educational sector and that as long as human beings interact, conflict must occur. However, once it occurs, conflict must be resolved.  That is managers of secondary schools should use the appropriate strategy to resolve conflicts in their schools. The study therefore recommends that managers of secondary schools in Nigeria should be trained in the art of conflict and conflict resolution strategies, especially in the mediation and arbitration strategies.