Steps for Resolving Roommate Conflict

Encountering conflict is a normal aspect of life and something that will likely happen during a student’s time in college. Developing skills to effectively move through conflict can help individuals find success while living in University Residences and beyond. Managing roommate(s) and community conflict is a major priority for University Residences. If a student is experiencing a conflict of any kind, the following are important steps they should take to seek resolution. 

1. Complete a Roommate/Suitemate Agreement.
  1. During the first several weeks of the academic year, Resident Assistants (RAs) meet with every pair of roommates/suitemates to help them establish common guidelines for living together and equip them with the tools to navigate potential future conflicts. These conversations are documented and available to all residents of the room for future reference.
  2. Remember, you can access your roommate/suitemate agreement at the following link: https://purdueur.erezlife.com/
2. Have a conversation with your roommate/suitemate.
  1. Residents are encouraged to talk directly with their roommate(s)/suitemate(s) about concerns they have about the living environment. When talking about conflict, it is helpful to address the concern early, use “I statements”, avoid being passive-aggressive and refer to the roommate/suitemate agreement, etc. Remember, this is a conversation, not an argument.
  2. If a resident feels they are unable to speak directly with their roommate/suitemate about the concern, they should proceed to the next step.
3. Ask the Resident Assistant for help.
  1. If the previous steps have not worked, residents should reach out to their RA to discuss their concerns promptly. RAs will facilitate mediation between the roommate(s)/suitemate(s) where concerns can be heard and addressed in a structured and supportive manner.
  2. If a resident feels they cannot contact their RA directly about a concern, they should proceed to the next step.
4. Contact your Hall Administrator.
  1. If a student has attempted to complete all the steps above and is still experiencing conflict, please contact the full-time administrator of the building/community. Please visit the following website to find the contact information for the administrator responsible for your building/community: https://housing.purdue.edu/campus-living/get-involved/work-with-us/rec.html
  2. Please know that a professional staff member within University Residence will follow up directly the student(s) involved regarding the concern.

 

Learn more about Conflict Competence on the Steps to Leaps website.