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Perceived regard, expressive suppression during conflict, and conflict resolution
Rebecca A Thomson1, Nickola C Overall1, Linda D Cameron2
1School of Psychology.
Summary
During relationship conflict, feeling less valued leads to suppressing emotions. This emotional suppression hinders effective conflict resolution, potentially harming relationships.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Relationship Science
Background:
- Emotional expression is crucial for resolving relationship conflicts.
- However, the fear of rejection during conflict can lead to emotional suppression, hindering resolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how perceived partner regard influences emotional expressive suppression during conflict.
- To examine the impact of expressive suppression on conflict resolution outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Two studies were conducted involving romantic couples.
- Study 1 used a conflict discussion paradigm with self-reports and independent coding.
- Study 2 employed daily diary methods over three weeks to track conflict dynamics.
Main Results:
- Lower perceived partner regard during conflict predicted increased expressive suppression.
- Greater expressive suppression was associated with poorer conflict resolution.
- These findings were independent of stress, negative emotions, withdrawal, or attachment insecurity.
Conclusions:
- Expressive suppression may serve to mitigate perceived rejection risk during conflict.
- However, this suppression ultimately undermines relationship conflict resolution.
- Interventions focusing on perceived regard and open emotional expression may improve conflict management.
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