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Dr. Larry Schooler

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Assistant Professor of Practice teaching leadership and communication, conflict resolution, and facilitation at UT Austin. Practicing mediator, facilitator, and consultant working with local, state, and federal government agencies and nonproft organizations. Expert in dialogue across different, de-escalation, consensus building, and public engagement in policymaking.

  • Effective Strategies for Resolving Workplace Conflicts
    Dr. Schooler advises addressing conflicts directly and promptly. He suggests expressing feelings about actions rather than personal attacks, e.g., "I felt confused when not invited to the meeting." Empathy and collaborative solutions are key. If unresolved, involve a neutral third party before escalating to management to avoid grudges.
  • Healthy Conflict: The Key to Stronger Relationships
    Dr. Schooler explains that while avoiding arguments is possible, it’s crucial for couples to experience conflict to understand differences and grow. "If conversations seem fairly superficial," it may indicate suppressed disagreement. Healthy conflict involves vulnerability and respect, allowing partners to express emotions and find creative solutions. Regular arguments become unhealthy when criticism outweighs constructive communication.
  • Expert Tips: Reducing Family Conflicts in Estate Planning
    Dr. Schooler advises that trusts and wills should include clear conflict resolution processes and use simple language. He emphasizes the role of a neutral third party to facilitate open dialogue, ensuring all parties feel heard. "Conflicts are often about more than money," he notes, highlighting the importance of addressing individual needs.
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  • “One way to change our thinking and belief system is to reframe the way we think about ‘wins’ in interactions,” says Larry Schooler, PhD, an assistant professor of practice who teaches conflict resolution and leadership and communication courses at the University of Texas at Austin. "Recognize that my ‘winning’ could mean the other person's losing, which can jeopardize the relationship we have. The harder I try to convince someone else I am right, the more likely that person will either fight by pushing back or flee by withdrawing, feeling defeated.”

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