Conflict in groups and organizations are becoming more pervasive due to the increasing complexity and interdependence of organizational life. Conflict can be difficult in any work group, but it can be particularly difficult when two cultures are involved. Effective intercultural interaction is crucial to the success of US- Foreign joint ventures. This Research Planning Grant lays the foundation for a research program that investigates the dimensions of conflict in bicultural top management teams. Planned research includes interviews of managers in joint ventures in the US, the PRC, and Russia. Multiple methods, such as multidimentional scaling and text analysis, will be used to analyze different types of conflict situations identified by the managers. The research will eventually lead to an increased understanding of the types of problems that affect firm survival in an international business community.
