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. Most times, conflict cannot be avoided. So, for peace and development, every conflict should be resolved or managed well. Conflict resolution is a way for two or more parties to find a peaceful solution to a disagreement among them. The disagreement may be personal, financial, political or emotional. However, well-managed conflict can also be constructive, helping to 'clear the air', releasing emotion and stress, and resolving tension. People have different identities and roles, many of which have conflicting demands. These differing identities and roles can be managed in other to avoid conflict. This paper proposes that deployment of politeness in conversation can help people handle conflict. Politeness helps one to avoid offending the other person's feelings and can be the easiest way to avoid tension.