Background
What is conflict in close relationships?
Conflict is the result of when a relationship partner interferes with the ability of an individual to pursue their own goals
Can arguments be good for a relationship? Name two reasons why.
1. Room for improvement to fulfill each others' needs better
2. Solving conflicts together can lead to a stronger bond
Give 3 examples of behavior during conflict that would fall under indirect opposition
attempts to induce guilt, expressions of hurt, conveying powerlessness
True or False: Couples who don’t have at least the occasional battle might have bigger problems than those who argue regularly
True
Give 3 examples of behavior during conflict that would fall under direct cooperation.
reasoning and negotiation, offering solutions, discussing alternatives
What are three conflict types that have been described in research?
Coercive, Constructive, and Unresolved conflicts
Which belief captures the idea that relational problems are malleable and can be overcome?
Growth Beliefs
Give 3 examples of behavior during conflict that would fall under direct opposition
criticizing, demanding change, blaming the partner
Which belief captures capture individuals’ theories of whether relationships are either meant to be or not?
Destiny Beliefs
Which attachment style is associated with the tendency to use more guilt induction during conflict?
Anxious Attachment
According to Kurt Lewin’s Goal Oriented View of conflict, why does conflict occur?
conflict in relationship occurs because partners cannot both simultaneously achieve their goals
According to the Social Exchange Theory, what happens when one feels they give more than their partner?
Perceived imbalance and relationship dissatisfaction
Weighing up pros and cons, and generating solution-oriented discussions. Which type of communication strategy is that?
Direct cooperation (or positive cooperation)
True or False: Adults who had parents with hostile conflict styles will always replicate their parents' conflict styles
Not always the case. You can have a validating conflict styles, but have parents with hostile conflict styles.
Emphasizing expressions of hurt and sadness, conveying dependence. Which type of communication strategy is that?
Indirect opposition (or negative indirect)
Name one cost and one benefit of conflict in close relatioships?
Cost: Physiological Responses
Benefit: Development of Relationship
When partners have issues with trust, honesty, and are emotionally disconnected, they may keep their interactions at ___________ levels
superficial
During their conflict, Kevin criticizes, blames Hannah and expresses his anger. Would this strategy be more likely to motivate Hannah to change if Kevin is high or low in self-esteem?
Would motivate Hannah if Kevin is high in self-esteem
_______ and avoidant styles have been linked to lower levels of relationship outcomes
Name one harmful effect of direct opposition
Partners feel unsure about resolving conflict
When it comes to behaviours during conflict, rather than what the specific conflict is about, _____________________________________ is more important
how individuals respond to conflict
When conflict occurs, what would be two tactics that one with the destiny belief mindset engage in?
Avoidance
Denial
Jonathan is often 10-15 minutes late for his date with Amanda. Amanda doesn’t like it and wants to discuss the problem with Jonathan but she noticed that he’s usually quite defensive when she brings up some relationship issues. What communication strategy would be the best in that situation?
Indirect cooperation (direct cooperation fine too)
High growth beliefs, low destiny beliefs = ____
Low growth beliefs, high destiny beliefs = ____
1. increase in positivity
2. increased hostility
Kathy is upset that her husband Jeremy works a lot and barely spends any time with her and their kids. However, their financial situation at the moment doesn’t allow Jeremy to work less hours or change a job. There is nothing he can do about the situation right now. Which communication strategy would be most beneficial for Kathy and Jeremy?
Direct or indirect cooperation