Exploring the role of culture in communication conflicts: A qualitative study

Abstract

This research article as a part of larger study intends to explore the role of culture in triggering communication conflicts among employees at the workplace. It also explores the role of Problem-based learning in resolving these culture based conflicts. Being a part of human life, conflict is a pervasive aspect of the socio-cultural and professional environment, especially at the workplace. The role of culture has one of the aspects that have played a pivotal role in initiating conflicts in the past. Using a qualitative research approach, this descriptive phenomenology study gathered data from semi-structured interviews from eighteen selected employees belonging to three development organizations in Pakistan. The research used a purposeful sampling to derive sample for the study. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed through thematic content analysis. The findings from this study reveal that different aspects of culture have a significant role in triggering communication conflicts among employees. The respondents, however, suggested that culture-based conflict could be reduced and tackled effectively through the training of employees on PBL approach which bring together people of diverse cultures on one table.