Which stage is manifest conflict?

• A. Latent conflict
• B. Manifest conflict
• C. Felt conflict
• D. Perceived conflict

Answer: (B)

Manifest conflict is the stage where disagreement becomes visible through overt behaviors and interactions. After a potential clash exists (latent), and people become aware of the issue (perceived) and feel emotional involvement (felt), the conflict moves into manifest form when those feelings and awareness are expressed openly—through arguing, hostile comments, formal complaints, withdrawal from collaboration, or deliberate attempts to influence others. In leadership terms, recognizing this stage prompts action to manage the dispute before it escalates further. For example, when two staff members argue in front of the team about patient assignments, the conflict has moved from private tensions to observable behavior that can disrupt care and teamwork, signaling the need for mediation or structured conflict-resolution strategies.