Abstract
BACKGROUND: Conflict management is an important leadership skill for residents to develop, yet it is a challenging skill to practice. OBJECTIVE: We developed and evaluated a workshop that teaches conflict resolution skills to physical medicine and rehabilitation residents in a group setting with real-time faculty coaching and peer feedback. METHODS: A 4-step model for handling work-related conflicts was taught, and then residents practiced their skills during a realistic simulated conflict with a trained actor. A faculty coach supported the participant, and peers gave feedback and suggestions in real time as the scripted conflict unfolded. Immediate post-session survey results were analyzed. RESULTS: Workshops were conducted in 2015, 2017, and 2019. A total of 36 residents participated and completed evaluations out of a possible 40 residents in the cohort (90% participation rate). Post-session surveys showed that 100% of participants agreed the session content was relevant to their training and they would use the skills in the future. Ninety-seven percent (35 of 36) felt prepared to manage conflict following the session. CONCLUSIONS: This experiential workshop helped cultivate an appreciation of the importance of conflict management skills in residents' professional development and confidence in their ability to apply a conflict management framework to real-world situations.