Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) Practice Test

When faced with conflict, what action might a person take instead of fighting?

1. Seek mediation

2. Start an argument

3. Back-off

4. Ignore the conflict

The correct answer is: Back-off

In situations of conflict, choosing to back off can be an effective strategy to de-escalate the situation and prevent further confrontation. This action allows the individual to create space, both physically and emotionally, which may lead to a calmer environment. By stepping away, the person has the opportunity to reflect on the situation, gather their thoughts, and possibly approach the conflict later with a clearer mindset. It can also serve to diffuse tensions, as taking a step back signals to the other party that they are not seeking to engage further at that moment. This strategy can be particularly useful in both personal and professional settings where emotions may run high, giving both parties a chance to cool down before addressing the issue again. While seeking mediation is another viable approach to resolving conflict by involving an impartial third party, it requires the willingness and readiness of all parties to engage cooperatively, which may not always be present. Ignoring the conflict can sometimes lead to unresolved issues that may resurface later. Starting an argument typically exacerbates the situation rather than resolving it, which is counterproductive in conflict resolution.