Final answer:
Contentious discussions between peers can occur due to a difference in opinions, competitive nature, misunderstanding, and lack of communication. Each of these factors can trigger conflicts particularly when not managed appropriately. It's important to have respectful and clear communication to avoid these disagreements.
Step-by-step explanation:
A contentious discussion between you and a peer could result from several factors. The first one is a difference in opinions. When two people have opposing views, it can create a conflict situation, especially if the topic is strongly linked to personal beliefs or values. The second factor can be a competitive nature. Competition can escalate to conflict especially if it is not managed appropriately. The third cause could be a misunderstanding. Misunderstandings can stem from communication breakdowns and can quickly lead to conflict if not clarified promptly. Lastly, a major contributing factor is the lack of communication. When communication breaks down, misconceptions can grow, leading to unnecessary conflicts.
Learn more about Conflict Causes