What stage comes after the 'Discussion' stage in the evolution of conflict?

In the evolution of conflict, the stage that follows 'Discussion' is characterized by an escalation in the disagreement, leading to more overt expressions of conflict. 'Open conflict' typically signifies that individuals or groups have moved past discussing their differences and are now openly confronting each other about the issues at hand. This stage is marked by active disagreement that may manifest through verbal exchanges, opposing actions, or even hostile behavior, illustrating a clear breakdown in communication and cooperation.

During the 'Discussion' stage, parties may attempt to share their perspectives and seek common ground; however, if these discussions fail to resolve the underlying issues, the situation can progress to 'Open conflict'. This stage is critical as it demonstrates the seriousness of the conflict and the necessity for resolution strategies to prevent escalation further into destructive behaviors. Thus, identifying 'Open conflict' as the next stage helps in understanding the dynamics of conflict evolution and the importance of addressing disagreements promptly before they intensify.