Exploring the Association between Empathy and Conflict Management Styles

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to examine the association between empathy and conflict management styles. Twenty graduate students in MBA program in a selected government university were distributed the survey questionnaire. Only seventeen students returned the questionnaire with completion. Empathy was measured by using the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire and conflict management styles were assessed based on modified version of conflict management questionnaire based on the concept of Thomas-Kilmann. Results indicated that graduate students had a medium level of empathy, and collaborating style was rated as the most favorable conflict management style for this group of students. In addition, Findings revealed the positive relationship between empathy and accommodating conflict style at a medium level (r = .531, p < .05). The recommendations for a further study and research implications were also proposed.