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Conflict management style and marital satisfaction
1Department of Psychology, University of Stellenbosch, South Africa. apg@maties.sun.ac.za
Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy
|November 1, 2000
Summary
Collaborative conflict management significantly boosts marital satisfaction, while competitive styles are linked to lower satisfaction. This study explored conflict styles, marital happiness, and gender dynamics in long-term marriages.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Marital satisfaction is crucial for relationship longevity.
- Effective conflict management is a key predictor of relationship success.
- Understanding conflict styles can inform relationship counseling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify which conflict management style most strongly correlates with marital satisfaction.
- To examine spousal satisfaction with conflict resolution processes.
- To investigate potential gender differences in conflict management and satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 57 couples married for at least 10 years.
- Assessment of conflict management styles (e.g., collaborative, competitive).
- Measurement of marital satisfaction and spousal satisfaction with conflict management.
Main Results:
- The collaborative conflict management style showed the highest positive correlation with both marital satisfaction and satisfaction with conflict management.
- The competitive conflict management style was associated with the lowest reported marital satisfaction.
- Significant gender differences in conflict management and satisfaction were observed and interpreted.
Conclusions:
- A collaborative approach to marital conflict is strongly linked to higher relationship satisfaction.
- Competitive conflict management strategies negatively impact marital quality.
- Cultural and gender factors play a role in conflict resolution and its effect on marital satisfaction.