Which type of conflict occurs when individuals feel attacked and become defensive?

The scenario described, where individuals feel attacked and become defensive, aligns closely with personality-related conflict. This type of conflict often arises from differences in individual personalities, character traits, or interpersonal dynamics. When people perceive an attack on their personal traits or values, they may become defensive as a natural psychological response. This defensiveness can escalate the situation, making productive communication more challenging.

In contrast, culture-related conflicts often stem from misunderstandings or differences in cultural values and practices, while cognitive conflicts are characterized by disagreements in ideas or opinions without personal attacks. Behavioral conflicts focus more on specific actions or behaviors that cause tension rather than personal feelings. Therefore, personality-related conflict is distinctly tied to the emotional responses and defensive behaviors that arise when individuals feel personally threatened or criticized.