One of the major conflicts in Cheaper by the Dozen is dealing with the large size of the family and all of the different character traits that come together from each individual. Simple tasks, such as taking the whole family on vacation, have to be planned out meticulously to ensure things run smoothly. Nearly any major event involving all twelve children could become totally out of control without the proper management. Luckily, Frank and Lillian Gilbreth seem to be the perfect managers for their family team.

There are smaller sub-conflicts that arise in the book as each member of the family deals with their own unique issues. Frank Gilbreth Sr. is somewhat obsessed with efficiency and time management, and he is occasionally conflicted over how to run the family in an efficient manner with so many children to manage. We watch him come up with solutions to what could have been difficult tasks in a family so large. One example of how he overcomes this conflict is when we learn that he will whistle to call the children instead of calling out every single name. In this manner, his sub-conflict is momentarily resolved.

Another conflict in the story is dealing with the girls' wishes to change with the times as they grow up and mature in their tastes for clothing. Frank struggles to come to terms with the fact that his little girls aren't so little anymore, but he gradually gives way to their wishes. Dealing with the inevitability of change and growth in a family on a daily basis could be quite difficult to some families, but the Gilbreths seem to overcome conflicts in a smooth and timely matter, with little fuss or drama.