Competition and Interpersonal Conflict in Same-Sex Platonic Friendships

• In Event: Conflict and Personal Relationships

Abstract

This research, which is a partial replication of Messman and Mikesell’s (2000) study, explores the connection between competition and distributive and integrative conflict messages in same-sex platonic friendships. Findings indicate that increased competition between friends is linked to a rise in distributive conflict tactics as well as to a reduction in integrative messages. The study also investigates sex differences in competitive behavior between friends, and compares the results with competitiveness in dating relationships.

Author

• Ewa Urban, Western Michigan University