Final answer:
The statement that conflict can be functional or dysfunctional in work situations is true. Functional conflict can lead to innovation and growth, while dysfunctional conflict can result in workplace issues. Different sociological perspectives like functionalism and conflict theory examine the roles and effects of these conflicts within societies and organizations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Depending upon its nature, conflict can either be functional or dysfunctional in work situations. This statement is true. Functional conflict can be healthy and beneficial to an organization, offering the opportunity for growth and innovation through the resolution of disagreements. Dysfunctional conflict, on the other hand, can lead to stress, diminished morale, lost productivity, and if left unresolved, can severely impact an organization negatively. Functionalists and conflict theorists offer different views on the role and impact of conflict within a society or organization. While functionalists seek consensus and believe that conflict is detrimental, conflict theorists see social change and conflict as a way to address inequality and differing interests within a society.
Sociologists use various frameworks like functionalism and conflict theory to understand the dynamics within societies and organizations. Functionalism focuses on cooperation and shared goals, whereas conflict theory, rooted in Marxism, examines the outcomes of socio-economic competition.