The Dynamics of Identity Conflict

The prevalent view of identity conflicts stresses the difference between con-flicts of interest and those of identity. Many scholars and experts describe conflict as being identity-based because it deals with basic needs and values. Such identity conflicts are categorized by existential needs, values, safety, dignity, and control over destiny and are rooted in complex and multidimensional psychological, historical, and cultural factors. Among the existing needs are participation, consistency, security, recognition, and distributive justice. The frustration of these basic needs along with a denial of human rights leads to social conflicts (Fisher 1997). Such conflicts arise when identity groups perceive that they are oppressed and victimized through a denial of recognition, security, and equity. Burton (1987, 1990) calls such conflicts “deep-rooted conflicts” and points out that they rest on underlying needs that cannot be compromised: interest and position in these conflicts are not negotiable. These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.