CONFLICT RESOLUTION STRATEGIESAND WELL-BEING OF RURAL DWELLERS IN CENTRAL SENATORIAL DISTRICT OF CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The inevitability of conflict in human interaction has been emphasized in literature by scholars, stakeholders, political, opinion, and religious leaders. However, the devastating consequences of conflict on the general human well-being have made conflict resolution an important topic of research to scholars. This study explores the linkages between conflict resolution strategies and well-being of rural dwellers in Central Senatorial District of Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examines the impact of mediation, and negotiation, on the well-being of rural dwellers. Three research questions were raised to guide the study. Cross-sectional survey research design was adopted because of the nature of the study. Questionnaire is the main instrument of data collection. Quantitative data were collected from 384 respondents from the study area. The generated data were statistically tested using Pearson Product Moment Correction (PPMC). Results from the quantitative study reveals that there is a significant relationship between mediation, negotiation, and well-being of rural dwellers in Central Senatorial District of Cross River State, Nigeria. The study concluded that there is a significant relationship between conflict resolution strategies and well-being of rural dwellers in Cross River State, Nigeria. The study recommended that advocacy for tolerance, love, forgiveness, and sensitivity of government to people's needs should be put in place to enhance well-being of rural communities ravaged by conflict.