Nonviolent communication in political conflicts

Abstract

This paper explores aspects of a communication model called Nonviolent Communication used in conflict resolution. The basis of this model is empathic connection and the use of four key concepts: observations, feelings, needs, and requests. The paper aims to make contributions to the more general fields of conflict resolution by introducing the premises, skills, and consciousness of Nonviolent Communication. First, the paper defines Human Needs Theory that establishes the basis for the Nonviolent Communication approach. Second, it gives a general description of Nonviolent Communication, its view, practice, and result, and a demonstration that this model can practically and effectively be used in political conflicts. It focuses on two aspects: one is Nonviolent Communication as a basis for a conflict resolution method in political disputes; second are ways in which it might be used to help diminish conflict in political issues. Because this - is a new area of study2 the emphasis here is on establishing a theoretical ground for Nonviolent Communication practitioners who want to use Nonviolent Communication as a conflict resolution method. An in-depth examination of the method in practice, along with other research, remains to be done.