Abstract
Purpose: The study explored whether or not significant differences exist between the conflicts teachers engage in and how they handled conflict based on their generational differences. Methodology: This study used descriptive and ex post facto research. The population consisted of elementary school teachers in five North San Diego County and Orange County, California, elementary school districts. An interview questionnaire was developed to collect data from 35 elementary school teachers. Findings: Baby Boomers mostly experienced tangible and boundary conflicts, Generation Xers mostly engaged in value conflicts and boundary conflicts, and Millennials mostly participated in value conflicts and perceptual responses. In regard to conflict handling, Baby Boomers used competing most of the time. Generation Xers used accommodating most of the time. Millennials used accommodating and collaborating most of the time. Conclusions: This study revealed Baby Boomers are significantly more likely to engage in conflicts focusing on power, a strong need to prove themselves, and dislike of change. They were more likely to handle conflicts using the assertive approach, competing, most of the time. Generation Xers are significantly more likely to engage in conflicts focusing on challenging authority, a strong need for balance, and adaptability to change. They were more likely to handle conflicts using the non-assertive approach, accommodating, most of the time. Millennials are significantly more likely to engage in conflicts focusing on their desire to fit in and the preference for mentoring by older peers. They engaged in both value and perceptual conflicts. They were more likely to handle conflicts using the assertive approach, collaborating, and the non-assertive approach, accommodating, most of the time. Implications for Action: Recommendations were made for school administrators and teachers in managing conflict at the school site: Generational differences need to be looked at as an integral part of workplace diversity, assign people to projects based on their talents, not their age, and when confronted with conflict between generations, remember don't react.