A central interpersonal conflict constantly surfacing throughout this movie involved two of the leading characters and their relationship. These characters, namely Alex Hutchings and Sara Melas have a rather frivolous relationship, which might also be looked at as friendship, at first, but then it develops into something serious for both. The climax scene involves revelations and implications of untold stories that lead to a lapse and the eventual fall of what these lovers considered dear.
Sara’s good friend had been dumped by her boyfriend on account of receiving advice from Hitch, the “date doctor”. This bias is a misrepresentation of the actual situation under consideration. Sara and her friend both believe that Hitch was underlying cause for the end of the relationship, whereas the final decision lied in the hands of the person himself. Hitch plays a role in causing a spark, or igniting flames, not in tearing two people apart. The lack of communication and especially explanation for the real reason behind the desertion is kept from Sara’s friend, which is why she plays the blame game. Sara forms this biased opinion based on her friend’s perception. To resolve this form of conflict it’s ideal to avoid playing the blame game, which will just increase the defensiveness and tension, and not solve the problem at hand. It is necessary in this situation for both parties to consult each other and devise conclusions as to what the issue was a provide suggestions or solutions. The key to resolving this category of conflict is lies in mutual respect, and not inhibited and restricted communication bases on assumptions .
This bias is exactly what resulted in the eventual climax during this movie, leading to Sara’s outrage upon discovering that Alex is actually the Hitch. What results in further anger is the fact that she blames him for her friend’s break-up and makes suppositions based on lack of effectual communication. I believe that her aggravated temper and storming off were due preconceived notions, so she took it as a betrayal. Later on, when Alex comes to visit Sara to explain the reality she storms off without listening. To avoid conflict in these matters, it’s essential to not defend one’s course of action. A popular study has established the diffusive technique in avoiding different matters of conflict, and it includes listening to the person being affected and agreeing with their discourse, rather than out rightly declaring the other person to be inaccurate . Moreover, if Alex had incorporated some amount of empathy and tried to put himself into Sara’s shoes he might have handled the matter suitably.
Prior communication and honesty are integral to prevent the falling out of any bond, and this applies to the conflicted state of affairs in Hitch. If Hitch had previously considered informing Sara about how he earns a living, and the true nature of that source of income, this whole issue could’ve been avoided wholly. One conflict resolution strategy that should’ve been incorporated was using a mediator. A mediator is someone not associated with the problem, but will be well informed with it and might be able to reach a common ground for positive feedback .
Maintaining honesty and adhering to an approach that’s open to opinions rather than narrow minded might have helped to prevent the recurrence of the basic conflict. Using a rational approach and rethinking every step, by forming options, choosing the most feasible one and then making a decision to tell Sara well in advance of the nature of job was therefore, crucial . Healthy bonds, relationships and affiliations rely on a relatively positive and open basis of communication, which should’ve been in consideration by the character within the movie to avoid arguments and hassles.
Bibliography
Bellafiore, D. (2011). Interpersonal conflict and effective communication. Retrieved from DRB Alternatives: http://www.drbalternatives.com/articles/cc2.html
Filley, A. C. (1975). Interpersonal Conflict Resolution.
Singh, V. (2010). Why is effective communication so important. Retrieved from Blogspot: http://varjeet87.blogspot.com/2010/01/resolving-interpersonal-conflict.html
