According to the information-processing perspective, conflict has an
inverted U-shape relationship with cognitive flexibility, creative thinking,
and problem-solving capacities. This perspective is based on Yerkes and
Dodson’s (1908) classic demonstration of an inverted U-shaped relation
between need level and task achievement, and the idea that some stress is
better for task performance than no stress or (too) high levels of stress
(Broadbent, 1972). Walton (1969) likewise argued that at low tension levels,
conflict leads to inactivity and avoidance, neglect of information, and low
joint performance. At high tension levels, it reduces the capacity to perceive,
process, and evaluate information. At moderate tension levels, however,
conflict parties will seek and integrate information, consider more
alternatives, and experience a strong impulse to improve the situation.