An overview of conflict management as it relates to the role of the principal is presented. The traditional approach to conflict, which minimizes conflict and emphasizes social control, is contrasted with the perspective that views conflict as inevitable, functional, and manageable. Intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts, functions of conflict, methods of conflict resolution, and the role of the administrator are discussed. Guidelines for dealing with conflict situations involving students, teachers, parents, and community are offered. A conclusion is that successful conflict resolution requires interpersonal communication skills, awareness of environmental factors, and recognition of conflict as an inherent, functional element of the educational system. (10 references) (LMI)