Conflict and Change Research Paper

In fact, analysts dealing with social conflict would agree that change, specifically sudden and extensive change, is capable of creating conflicts (Mitchell, 2011). It is for these reasons that this academic paper will focus on conflict and change theories. Additionally, it will focus on a leader as an agent of change, and the ability of nurses to hinder or enhance effective leadership through handling of change and conflict. Change Theories In nursing, change theories are utilized in bringing about the planned change. Thus, it is important that nurses along with nurse leaders understand the change models and choose the most appropriate one. The eight steps are: recognition of indicators, diagnosis of the problem, analysis of alternate resolutions, selection of the appropriate change, formulating plans, implementation, evaluation and eventually, stabilization of the change.

Rogers’ change theory Rogers developed a five-stage theory by modifying Lewin’s model. The phases are as follows: creating awareness about the idea, capturing the interest of staff, evaluating how to apply the idea, implementing the idea, in addition to the adopting the idea (Mitchell, 2013). The theory is particularly effective when applied to change projects that are long-term. It can only be successful when nurse leaders who initially disregarded the proposed changes adopt it due to what they heard from nurses who implemented it earlier. The theoretical model is also applicable to the classroom achievement as well as motivation as it contends that people have the capacity of influencing behavior in a matter that suits their goals. Leaders as Change Agents The leadership concept is somehow elusive.

Effective leadership should make positive change. Being change agents is a primary function of nurse leaders. As a change agent, nurse leaders should utilize their images of power in promoting staff involvement in projects in order to gain commitment and support as well (Maragh, 2011). The capability of nurse leaders to promote change effectively while at the same time recognizing conflicts and resolving them are imperative skills that any successful leader ought to have. Acknowledging that change and conflicts are necessary for the improvement of care and igniting creativity is a critical step in managing the two effectively. References Batras, D. , Duff, C. , & Smith, B. The nurse leader as change agent and role model: Thoughts of a new nurse manager.  Nurse Leader, 9(3), 39-42.