Why is it difficult to reach consensus in interpersonal value conflict situations? Theoretical explanations and mediation strategies

Abstract: People often use the phrase different paths, no conspiracy to describe the difficulty of reaching a consensus after an interpersonal value conflict occurs. Due to the conflict, people will not only experience a series of negative subjective feelings, but also develop prejudice and hostility toward their opponents. Together, these feelings make it very difficult to resolve interpersonal conflicts based on value differences. Values are represented and constructed in such a way that people are prone to two cognitive biases in the face of interpersonal value conflicts: self-threat and the illusion of personal objectivity. Currently, researchers have focused on two interpersonal values conflict mediation strategies: self-affirmation and other-affirmation. Future research needs to enrich the relevant theoretical explanations, focus on the influencing factors and their effects in interpersonal value conflicts, and expand their mediation strategies and related application practices.