Politeness Strategies in Conversational Discourse as a Panacea for Emerging Conflict

Abstract

Conflicts, arguments and change are natural parts of our lives, as well as the lives of every agency, organisation and nation. This means that conflict among men is inevitable and thus pertinent that people know how to avoid it or manage it if it arises. Conflict is not always a bad thing. It can be destructive, leading people to develop negative feelings for each other and spend energy on conflict that could be better spent elsewhere. It can also deepen differences and lead groups to polarise into either positions.