109). Jill initially displays a competitive style by not recognizing Dan's conflicting priorities and offers to find her own supplier. Pruitt, Rubin, and Kim (1994) found that “contending is a “softer” form of competition.” (as cited in Folger, Poole, & Stutman, 2013, p. 115) Contention provides some flexibility in the situation as long as the individual's goals are not compromised. It is difficult with the limited history of previous interactions between Dan and Jill to determine whether this was a way of "softening" his style by offering help to preserve the relationship or whether it was more threatening to indicate that he would do what he wanted. it takes to get what he needs. Dan also demonstrates a competitive style by stating his priorities and not offering alternatives or working to agree on an acceptable timeline to meet individual needs. The lack of communication, accommodation and collaboration between Jill and Dan prevents the issue from being resolved