Final answer:
Separation is not a requirement of conflict, which typically involves perception, overt acts, incompatibility of interests, and opposition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic separation is not a requirement of conflict. In conflict theory and related studies, the key elements that constitute a conflict include perception (the awareness of the conflict), overt acts (actions taken due to the conflict), incompatibility of interests or goals, and opposition between parties. However, separation may not necessarily be a requirement or characteristic of a conflict, as conflicts can occur even when parties are still engaged in interaction or are in a relationship.