This is a powerful resource for anyone who wants to understand the nature of interpersonal conflict—to study it, understand why it's a consistent part of human history, and perhaps avert it in their own lives.

• Presents a fascinating investigation into the many forms of conflict and the ways these have an impact on everyday life

• Establishes the importance of conflict in our lives, as well as the surprising concept that conflict can be constructive and useful rather than simply destructive

• Provides an overview of the key theories and a historical study of conflict, including landmark research like the Robbers Cave experiment, social identity theory, and psychodynamic theory

• Explores conflict throughout the life cycle with scenarios that readers will find familiar and which will resonate on a personal level

• Provides a global perspective to underscore the nature of conflict and its existence in virtually every society in the world—a timely topic in an era of unprecedented divisiveness