Difference Between Competition and Conflict

DISTINCTION BETWEEN COMPETITION AND CONFLICT

Although competition and conflict are disintegrative or dissociative social processes, we find differences in their nature, types and functions. So, these two social processes should not be confused with each other. The distinction between these two may be indicated in the following points.

Competition:

1. Competition is continuous. It can never end. So, it is called a never-ending social process.

2. Competition is an impersonal process. The competing individuals do not have personal contact whatsoever.

3. Competition is an unconscious Process because the individuals or the groups are unaware of it. Their attention is mainly fixed on the object of competition. i.e. a reward or a prize.

4. Competition is a peaceful and non-violent process. There is an absence of coercion or violence.

5. In competition, all the competitors derive benefit from it.

6. Competition, when it becomes rigorous, results in conflict.

7. Competition and co-operation can go together simultaneously Competition does not stand in the way of co-operation and vice-versa.

8. The competition encourages hard work.

9. Competition observes social laws.

10. Competition is productive.

Conflict:

1. Conflict needs more continuity. It is an intermittent social process. It takes place suddenly and ends quickly. It is an ever-ending social process.

2. Conflict is a personal process. The conflicting parties know each other personally and try to defeat the opponent.

3. Conflict is a conscious process. Because the parties involved in a conflict are aware of it and make deliberate efforts to reach the goal, which takes place on a conscious level.

4. Conflict is generally a violent process as people use violent methods.

5. In conflict, people suffer heavy losses.

6. Competition, when it becomes personalized, leads to conflict.

7. It is a conflict which puts brakes on co-operation for a short period.

8. Conflict discourages efforts.

9. Conflict disregards social laws.

10. Conflict is non-productive.

In the end, it may be stated that conflict and competition are sometimes difficult to distinguish, both being forms of rival behaviour. However, as explained above, the difference in focus of the opposing parties serves as a useful guide. When the attention of the competitors is shifted from the goal to the competitors themselves, competition becomes a conflict.