Application of Game Theory in Organizational Conflict Resolution: The Case of Negotiation

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating game theory to determine the extent to which it influences the effectiveness of negotiation methods of conflict resolution in Nigerian organizations. To achieve this purpose, a review of the extent literature was made and it was hypothesized that gave theory does not significantly enhance the effectiveness of the negotiation method of conflict resolution in Nigerian organizations. To generate the necessary data for this study, seventy (70) copies of the questionnaire were administered to the general managers and union chairmen of the selected companies in Port-Harcourt. The data generated were statistically tested with a t-test which revealed a value of 3.37. At 0.05 level of significance and 68 degrees of freedom, t-critical indicated a value of 1.95 for a two-tailed test. The result, therefore, suggested that game theory significantly enhances the effectiveness of the negotiation method of conflict resolution in Nigerian organizations. Based on the above, it was recommended that Nigerian organizations apply game theory for conflict resolution, and training programs, seminars, and workshops should be organized for decision-makers to adequately equip them with the application of game theory.