Which factor does NOT affect the course of conflict?

The factor that does not impact the course of conflict is the time of day the conflict occurs. In conflict resolution, the dynamics of the situation are primarily influenced by more substantial elements such as the age of the parties involved, their personal values, and the nature of the issue at hand.

The age of the parties can affect their perspectives and communication styles, while personal values play a significant role in how individuals perceive and respond to conflicts. Likewise, the nature of the issue greatly influences the conflicts' complexity and the stakes involved for the parties. In contrast, the time of day is largely irrelevant to the core dynamics of the conflict itself, as it does not alter the motivations, beliefs, or values that drive the conflict.