Perceptions of conflict resolution styles in dating relationships and their effect on conflict outcome satisfaction and overall relationship satisfaction

Abstract

Perceptions of conflict resolution styles and its effect on conflict outcome satisfaction and relationship satisfaction was investigated. It was hypothesized that perceived similarity would be a stronger predictor of both conflict outcome and relationship satisfaction compared to actual similarity, and that understanding would predict both types of satisfaction. Forty dating heterosexual couples taken from undergraduate classes at the University of Central Florida participated. A questionnaire with three scales; measuring conflict behaviors, conflict outcome satisfaction and relationship satisfaction was distributed to participants. Multiple regression of perceived similarity and actual similarity in relation to relationship satisfaction revealed support of the hypothesis for constructive behaviors and destructive behaviors. Similar analyses conducted for conflict outcome satisfaction revealed that it was only for constructive behaviors that perceived similarity was a greater predictor of satisfaction compared to actual similarity. Correlational analyses to test the second hypothesis revealed only partial support. Understanding of constructive behaviors was predictive of both types of satisfaction, where as, for destructive behaviors, understanding was only related to conflict outcome satisfaction. Gender differences in predictors of satisfaction were also found. These results have been attributed to gender differences in positions held in relationships, differences with the married couple and methodological limitations.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

1995

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Fisher, Randy

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree Program

Psychology

Subjects

Arts and Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic;Dissertations, Academic -- Arts and Sciences

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0021437

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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