What type of conflict most often arises from a zero-sum perception of available resources?

Resource conflict most often arises from a zero-sum perception of available resources. Resource conflict occurs when parties believe there is a scarcity of essential resources, such as money, land, jobs, or power, and that one party's gain necessarily results in another party's loss. A 'zero-sum' perception means the involved parties believe the total amount of the resource is fixed; if one party gets more, the other party automatically gets less. This contrasts with a 'positive-sum' situation, where collaboration can increase the total amount of resources available, or a 'negative-sum' situation, where all parties involved lose resources. When individuals or groups perceive a situation as zero-sum regarding access to vital resources, it intensifies competition and often leads to heightened conflict because they believe their own survival or success depends on preventing others from acquiring those limited resources. For example, two companies vying for a single, exclusive government contract may view the situation as zero-sum; only one can win, and the other will lose the opportunity entirely, intensifying their competition and potential for conflict.