What is an example of role conflict?

An example of role conflict is when a boss has to fire an employee whom they consider to be a good friend. Role conflicts emphasize the emotional conflict that someone experiences when they must respond to competing demands, according to Dictionary.com.

Role conflicts are commonly seen among all genders when people are not able to live up to the roles that are defined in society based on their genders. For men and boys, this may relate directly to the restricting definitions of masculinity. This may include the inability to express their emotions among other men, as well as having issues with success and power. Women also face issues that are related to their femininity and societal demands.