Linda and Larry are angry because their new neighbors in the apartment complex, Dale and Donna, seem to hold late-night parties every Thursday. Linda and Larry both have long work days that require them to rise early and remain alert all day. Linda and Larry have asked Dale and Donna to keep the noise down on Thursday nights and conclude their parties by midnight. Dale and Donna have ignored their requests. Linda and Larry have reached their boiling points and have decided to call the police this Thursday if the party goes on beyond midnight.

Given this scenario, how have Linda and Larry handled the conflict thus far? What should they do now?

Additional questions to consider:

1. Some negotiating is “interest-based”, and some is “rights based”. What determines which approach is better and which approach is least costly?
2. When is “active avoidance” appropriate?