Explanation
According to the PMP reference materials, conflict is a natural and inevitable occurrence in any project, and it can have both positive and negative effects on the project performance and outcomes12. Therefore, the project manager should be able to identify, analyze, and manage conflict effectively, using various conflict resolution techniques and skills12. According to the best practices for conflict resolution, the first step in resolving any conflict is to recognize and understand the conflict, its sources, types, and impacts34. This step involves listening to the different perspectives of the parties involved, acknowledging their feelings and emotions, and clarifying the facts and assumptions34. This step helps the project manager to gain a deeper insight into the nature and scope of the conflict, and to identify the underlying needs and interests of the stakeholders34. The other options are not the best actions to take as the first step to resolve this situation, as they either skip or delay the recognition and understanding of the conflict, or they are not relevant or feasible for the scenario.
Rescheduling the session (A) may not be possible or effective, as it may not address the root cause of the conflict, or it may aggravate the situation by creating more delays and dissatisfaction. Listing alternative courses of action may be a useful step later in the conflict resolution process, but it requires a prior understanding of the conflict and its implications. Applying risk assessment techniques (D) may not be appropriate or necessary, as the conflict may not be a risk, but a reality, and it may not be resolved by applying risk management tools or methods. References: 1: Manage Project Team - Project Management Institute 2:
Conflict Management - Project Management Knowledge 3: Conflict Resolution Tips and Conflict Resolution Techniques for the PMP ...3 4: 5 Conflict Resolution Techniques in Project Management - PM Study Circle1