Management chose to close checks at the bar and stop transfers between bar and dining room to resolve a gratuity dispute. Which form of conflict resolution is this?

• A. Avoided resolution
• B. Arbitration
• C. Negotiation
• D. Mediation

Answer: (A)

Avoidance is a conflict-resolution approach where the parties sidestep the disagreement rather than confront it. By closing checks at the bar and stopping transfers between the bar and dining room, management removes the immediate arena for the gratuity dispute to play out. There’s no discussion, no third-party decision, and no formal bargaining happening at that moment. It’s an attempt to reduce friction and delay the issue, but it doesn’t address the underlying problem or produce a lasting resolution.

Arbitration would involve a neutral third party issuing a binding decision. Mediation would have a neutral mediator facilitate discussion to help the parties reach a voluntary agreement. Negotiation would be direct bargaining aimed at a mutual settlement.