What stance do you adopt?

As a HR professional, a big part of my work is conflict resolution, and there are different approaches to conflict resolution. I recently came across an article by Weingart et al., 2015, and their work strongly resonates with me. Central to their work is the position ‘that the manner in which conflict is expressed will influence perceptions and reactions, changing the way the conflict process unfolds, the impact it has on the parties involved, and subsequent outcomes’.  
I have reproduced the work with some additions, please read the full work for a fuller understanding. The table below will help you reflect on stance you adopt and the outcome you can expect with the position you adopt.  

​A few things struck me from reading the article. Sarcasm is often rooted in unaddressed issues. The emotional reaction in all four quadrants is similar, and inaction often leads to undesirable outcomes. So, before you ignore that niggling itch at work, think of the outcome and adopt the stance that helps you get your desired outcome.  
 
Citation- Weingart, L.R. et al. (2015) “THE DIRECTNESS AND OPPOSITIONAL INTENSITY OF CONFLICT EXPRESSION,” The Academy of Management review, 40(2), pp. 235–262.