The conversational process in How to Avoid Conflict is revolutionary, in that discussion of a topic is usually driven by the myth that the person who speaks first governs the conversation. However, with the conflict avoidance approach, the reverse is true; the conversation is driven by asking questions first. This begins with understanding one's own mental framework on an issue to be discussed, then understanding the mental framework of the other party to the discussion. This is accomplished by asking the other person open-ended questions, listening attentively and empathetically to all verbal and non-verbal statements, and restating what is said so that you really understand what has been said. The logic to this approach is that, having learned the true nature of the mental framework of the other party to the dialogue, you will be able to avoid erroneous assumptions and be able to state your position in a positive fashion which will be more absent of potential conflict and therefore, more effective.  Instructor: James H. Flanagan, JD.