Different kinds of conflicts

Most common reasons for conflicts between neighbours:

  • Misunderstandings
  • Inappropriate conduct
  • Damage done to property
  • Vandalism or harassment
  • Disturbances related to children
  • Racism
  • Power dynamics in a property company or a tenant committee
  • Disturbances related to pets
  • Violent information
  • Insults
  • Property boundaries and road use
  • Untidy surroundings
  • Unpleasant smells
  • Treatment of children
  • Exercise of power by children in the yard areas

Typical features of communal conflicts:

  • Something is said that is taken as an insult by another party
  • Something is done that for a reason or another is not accepted
  • A problem is discussed with others but not with the party involved
  • Reporting to authorities/teacher/employer
  • Reporting to property manager/housing adviser
  • Reporting to child welfare authorities
  • Writing anonymous notes or “official” announcements
  • Development of atmosphere of suspicion, feelings of fear and guilt
  • The need to explain and justify one’s own thoughts and actions
  • Gathering evidence against someone and seeking allies
  • Events start to have very different interpretations