Which among the following actions would constitute the most appropriate directive(s) in resolving interpersonal conflict in an office with culturally diverse personnel? 1. Direct personnel to practise activities that are the cultural markers of diverse groups 2. Allow conflicts to resolve naturally over time to set an appropriate precedent of leadership 3. Encourage personnel to seek each other's perspectives Select the answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 3
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 3 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (d) 2 and 3
Why the answer is (c)
• Action 3 is appropriate: getting people to understand each other's perspectives addresses the root of cross-cultural conflict.
• Action 1 is not: ordering people to practise other groups' cultural markers is imposed and can deepen resentment.
• Action 2 is not: leaving conflicts to "resolve naturally" is avoidance; unresolved conflicts tend to grow, and it sets a poor example of leadership.
• Hence 3 only: (c).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 and 3
- Directing people to practise others' cultural markers is an imposition.
- (b) 2 only
- Letting conflicts drift is avoidance, not leadership.
- (d) 2 and 3
- Letting conflicts drift is avoidance, not leadership.
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, held on 24 May 2026. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.