Professor Shaphan Roberts Shares Strategies for Homeowner Association Conflict Management

On June 24, 2025, Dr. Shaphan Roberts, senior director and adjunct professor at the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, shed light on key issues at the recent Channel Islands Community Associations Institute (CAI) Chapter Luncheon titled “HOA Conflict Management: From Escalation to Resolution.” Drawing on his expertise in conflict resolution in community-police relations, Roberts explored how homeowner association (HOA) leaders and residents can better navigate disputes that arise in community settings.

In his session, Roberts emphasized that conflict is inevitable, but how it is managed makes all the difference. He guided participants through the underlying factors that fuel escalation and demonstrated how perspective, communication styles, and personality types influence the dynamics of neighborhood and boardroom disputes.

Key takeaways from the presentation included:

• Tools to recognize and respond to diverse personality types and viewpoints.
• Practical de-escalation strategies for tense interactions.
• Guidance on identifying personal conflict styles to improve dialogue.
• An overview of effective dispute resolution techniques, including Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods.

Roberts’ presentation was timely and practical, and equipped HOA leaders and members with valuable tools to foster more peaceful and productive community relationships.