Conflict resolution within the supervisory relationship.

158 graduate students in clinical psychology were surveyed concerning the occurrence, handling, and outcome of conflicts in their supervisory experiences. 38% of the Ss with supervised experience reported a major conflict with a supervisor that made it difficult to learn from supervision. Ss described 3 areas of conflict—theoretical orientation or therapeutic approach, style of supervision, or personality issues. The degree to which conflicts were discussed and successfully resolved seemed to depend partly on the type of conflict; it was easier to resolve conflicts that centered on style of supervision than on personality issues. When conflicts were not resolved, Ss often sought support from others, altered their behavior to conceal difficulties, or appeared to comply with the supervisor. Implications for the learning process in supervision are discussed. (14 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)