1. TYPES OF CONFLICT

2. A problem that characters face in a story.
What is a conflict?
A problem that characters face in a story.
A struggle between two or more opposing forces.
Often the climax of the story is connected to the conflict.
The story’s resolution relies on the outcome of the conflict, meaning the problem is settled in some way.

3. There are two types of conflict:
Internal (Inside) External (Outside)

4. Internal Conflict
A struggle within the mind of a character which creates suspense in the plot. The character struggles within himself to make a choice, take an action, or overcome a feeling.
Can arise from opposing feelings, beliefs, needs, desires, or demands

5. Person vs. Self
When a character has a problem inside of themselves, an internal conflict.
Example
Being near starvation and considering stealing food but knowing that stealing is wrong.

6. External Conflict
A character struggles against an outside force such as another character or nature.
Conflicts that involve action we can “see” happening.
Not within the thoughts of the characters
There are many types of external conflicts .

7. Person vs. Person
When a character has a problem with another character Example Two boys fight over a girl.

8. Person vs. Nature
When a character has a problem with weather, animals, or some other element of nature. Example A flooding river threatens the lives and homes of those nearby.

9. Person vs. Society
A character struggles against an issue affecting an entire community. Examples A woman refuses to move to the back of a bus because of the color of her skin. A group of students fight the school over the dress code.

10. Person vs. Universe
A character tries to challenge the fate that they are destined to have.
Example
In the movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, the main character, George, wishes that he was never born and sees how this changes the world he has once known.

11. Person vs. Supernatural
A character has a problem with ghosts, monsters, or things not of this world. Super = Beyond Natural = this world Example A child thinks that his house is haunted.