Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

In negotiation, if one party concedes to the other but the losing side gains little or nothing, this approach is referred to as:

1. compromise

2. avoidance

3. competition

4. accommodation

The correct answer is: accommodation

The term "accommodation" in negotiation refers to a strategy where one party gives up their own interests or needs to satisfy the other party's demands. This approach often results in the conceding party gaining little or nothing in return, highlighting a significant imbalance in the negotiation. An individual using accommodation may prioritize the relationship or the needs of the other party over their own, which can lead to a sense of defeat if their own goals are neglected. In contrast, negotiation strategies like competition focus on achieving one's own goals at the expense of the other party, while compromise aims for mutual satisfaction where both parties achieve some of what they want. Avoidance, on the other hand, involves steering clear of the conflict altogether. Therefore, understanding accommodation is crucial as it demonstrates a willingness to prioritize harmony over equal gain in negotiations.