Institutional Affiliation
Nova Southeastern University
Start Date
January 2026
End Date
January 2026
Proposal Type
Presentation
Proposal Format
Virtual
Proposal Description
Discourse Markers in Conflict Management: A Literature Review
Discourse markers, often seen as fillers in conversation, are important for managing interpersonal conflicts. This literature review aims to show how these markers influence conflict dynamics, with implications for promoting peace and strengthening community relationships. By combining research from linguistics, communication studies, and conflict resolution, the review looks at how discourse markers function during three phases of conflict: initiation, escalation, and de-escalation. The authors aim to improve both theoretical understanding and practical approaches to engaging constructively in conflicts, enhancing cohesion within global and local communities through better communication.
Using a qualitative synthesis methodology, this review examines peer-reviewed studies from 2000 to 2025, drawing on materials from fields like linguistics, communication, psychology, and conflict resolution. Data will be gathered through comprehensive searches in databases such as PsycINFO, JSTOR, and Communication & Mass Media Complete. Inclusion criteria will focus on empirical studies that investigate spoken conflicts involving discourse markers, excluding those solely focused on fillers or non-conflictual conversations. Extracted data will be systematically categorized based on marker type, conversational function, conflict phase, and cultural or relational context.
Early findings suggest that mitigating markers (e.g., “I mean,” “kind of”) can help ease conflict escalation, while directive markers (e.g., “so,” abrupt “well”) might increase tension, especially in hierarchical or intercultural interactions. The review will identify existing research gaps and suggest future research directions, including the use of discourse analysis in conflict coaching and mediation practices.
By highlighting the impact of everyday language on the progression of interpersonal conflicts, the authors aim to make significant contributions to peace and conflict studies, interpersonal communication, and human security. Insights from this analysis could lead to the development of more empathetic and effective conflict engagement strategies, grounded in dialogue, respect, and relational peace.
Included in
International Relations Commons, Organizational Communication Commons, Other International and Area Studies Commons, Other Political Science Commons, Other Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Peace and Conflict Studies Commons, Political Theory Commons, Politics and Social Change Commons
Discourse Markers in Conflict Management: A Literature Review
Discourse Markers in Conflict Management: A Literature Review
Discourse markers, often seen as fillers in conversation, are important for managing interpersonal conflicts. This literature review aims to show how these markers influence conflict dynamics, with implications for promoting peace and strengthening community relationships. By combining research from linguistics, communication studies, and conflict resolution, the review looks at how discourse markers function during three phases of conflict: initiation, escalation, and de-escalation. The authors aim to improve both theoretical understanding and practical approaches to engaging constructively in conflicts, enhancing cohesion within global and local communities through better communication.
Using a qualitative synthesis methodology, this review examines peer-reviewed studies from 2000 to 2025, drawing on materials from fields like linguistics, communication, psychology, and conflict resolution. Data will be gathered through comprehensive searches in databases such as PsycINFO, JSTOR, and Communication & Mass Media Complete. Inclusion criteria will focus on empirical studies that investigate spoken conflicts involving discourse markers, excluding those solely focused on fillers or non-conflictual conversations. Extracted data will be systematically categorized based on marker type, conversational function, conflict phase, and cultural or relational context.
Early findings suggest that mitigating markers (e.g., “I mean,” “kind of”) can help ease conflict escalation, while directive markers (e.g., “so,” abrupt “well”) might increase tension, especially in hierarchical or intercultural interactions. The review will identify existing research gaps and suggest future research directions, including the use of discourse analysis in conflict coaching and mediation practices.
By highlighting the impact of everyday language on the progression of interpersonal conflicts, the authors aim to make significant contributions to peace and conflict studies, interpersonal communication, and human security. Insights from this analysis could lead to the development of more empathetic and effective conflict engagement strategies, grounded in dialogue, respect, and relational peace.