Reducing and Resolving Conflicts in Family Businesses in Myanmar
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Abstract
In a number of countries, family businesses predominate and represent their economic backbone, as they generate wealth and employment. The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify the characteristics of conflicts in family businesses and to make focused recommendations for the management and resolution of such conflicts. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 participants from seven distinct family-owned businesses in Kalay Town, Myanmar. The findings indicated that task, process, and relationship conflicts are prevalent in family businesses. Seven conflict management strategies were frequently used to deal with these conflicts—open communication, confrontation, debate or discussion, rotating responsibility, involving a third party, accommodation, and avoidance. Effective governance can improve family business dynamics, along with reducing and preventing conflicts.
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