What does 'emotional flooding' refer to in the context of conflict communication?

'Emotional flooding' refers to a situation where overwhelming emotions impede rational communication during a conflict. This phenomenon occurs when individuals experience a surge of emotions—such as anger, fear, or frustration—that can make it difficult to think clearly or respond thoughtfully. As a result, they may become less capable of listening, articulating their needs, or understanding the perspectives of others.

In conflict communication, when someone is emotionally flooded, their ability to engage in constructive dialogue is compromised. This can lead to escalated tensions, miscommunications, and further conflict, as individuals may react based on feelings rather than logical reasoning. Recognizing and managing emotional flooding is crucial for effective conflict resolution.

In contrast, the other options focus on different concepts. A state of calm during a conflict is not indicative of emotional flooding but rather the opposite. An effective negotiation strategy implies a controlled, rational approach, which would be incompatible with the chaos of emotional flooding. A breakdown in emotional intelligence might be related to poor communication but does not specifically capture the essence of emotional flooding as it pertains to overwhelming feelings during conflict.