Conflict is a central theme in "The Scarlet Ibis," manifesting both internally and externally. The story explores the tension between the narrator's pride and his brother Doodle's physical limitations. This struggle is set against the backdrop of a rural Southern landscape, mirroring the emotional turmoil of the characters. The conflicts in the story highlight themes of pride, brotherhood, and the destructive nature of forcing change.

The narrator's internal conflict is evident from the start. He grapples with mixed feelings towards Doodle, who is both a source of embarrassment and a beloved sibling. The narrator's desire for a "normal" brother creates a conflict between the brother he has and the brother he wishes for. This internal struggle is compounded by the external conflict between the brothers, as the narrator pushes Doodle beyond his physical limits. This external conflict ultimately leads to Doodle's tragic death, underscoring the destructive power of the narrator's pride.

Doodle's character is central to the story's conflict. His physical fragility and determination to please his brother create a man versus nature conflict. The narrator's pride transforms this into a man versus man conflict, as he views Doodle's disabilities as a personal burden. The narrator's relentless push for Doodle's independence stems from a desire to avoid embarrassment, leading to cruel actions that culminate in Doodle's death. Doodle's character embodies the central conflict, highlighting the consequences of the narrator's pride and desire for conformity.

The setting of World War I parallels the conflict between the brothers, emphasizing the theme of forced transformation. The war among "brothers" in Europe mirrors the personal conflict between Doodle and the narrator. The narrator's efforts to remake Doodle into a reflection of himself result in tragedy, much like the destruction wrought by war. The setting's natural elements, such as tumultuous weather, symbolize the internal and external conflicts, foreshadowing the story's tragic outcome.

The narrator's desire for conformity drives the conflict and affects the story's outcome. His pride blinds him to Doodle's limitations, leading him to push Doodle beyond his capabilities. The narrator's disappointment in Doodle's failure to meet his expectations results in a cruel decision to abandon him during a storm. This act of revenge, driven by wounded pride, leads to Doodle's death. The narrator's inability to accept Doodle's uniqueness and his insistence on conformity highlight the destructive nature of pride and the tragic consequences of forcing change.