This conceptualization of tension provides a whole diff erent lens for understanding confl ict and confl ict resolution. Most notably, it suggests that while it may be critical to manage or address the disagreements directly, it is just as important to consider the integrative ties, as stronger ties could allow the relationships to withstand greater confl ict. While this theory has not yet been tested, there has been some supportive evidence for it. Most notably, Varshney (2002) found that what diff erentiated Indian cities engulfed in communal violence between Hindus and Muslims from relatively harmonious cities was the strong civic engagement and interaction of the Hindu and Muslim communities in the more peaceful cities. While Gamson and Modigliani’s (1963) theory focused on the international level and Varshney’s (2002) focused on the communal level, this theory is also of direct relevance for organizations, the focus of this research note.