We benefit from relationships, whether that’s a friendship, a romantic partnership, or a familial one, having interpersonal relationships can help us feel nurtured and grow. Relationships can also be challenging. Conflict between individuals is a fact of life - and it's not necessarily a bad thing. Most of the serious conflicts in your life probably involve people you are closely connected to. Conflict can cause resentment, hostility and perhaps the end of the relationship. If the conflict is handled well, however, it can be productive and lead to deeper understanding, mutual respect and closeness.