How should a sergeant handle a conflict between two cadets?

• A. Ignore it until it escalates and you need to intervene
• B. Mediate, listen to both sides, set boundaries, and develop a fair plan to restore teamwork
• C. Refer the problem to a higher ranking officer and wait for instruction
• D. Punish the aggressor immediately to deter further incidents

Answer: (B)

Conflict resolution hinges on stepping in as a leader who restores harmony and accountability. The best approach is to mediate: listen to both cadets, give each a fair chance to speak, and then set clear boundaries and a plan that helps them work together again. By hearing both sides, you identify the root cause and prevent lingering resentment, while outlining explicit expectations and possible consequences if the behavior repeats. This method strengthens discipline and teamwork, models fair treatment, and shows that leadership takes prompt, constructive action to protect the unit’s cohesion.

Ignoring the problem lets tension grow and can lead to larger incidents. Referring it upward to a higher officer may be appropriate in serious cases, but it delays direct conflict-management skills and misses the chance to develop the cadets’ ability to resolve disputes. Punishing the aggressor right away might stop the act in the moment but often doesn’t address underlying issues or rebuild trust within the team.