Can neighbour disputes be more than a zero-sum game?

Our first instinct may be to hit back at nuisance neighbours, but in doing so we stand to lose more than we gain.

Problems arise when people view neighbourly disputes as a zero-sum game, where to give way is to give ground. PHOTO: ST FILE
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

Several years ago, my family had to confront a neighbour over his smoking habit. The second-hand cigarette smoke would drift into one of our bedrooms, fouling the air for hours.

Eventually, he agreed to light up only in his toilet or service yard, minimising the impact of second-hand smoke on our living areas.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.