Linking Serial Arguing and Well-being: Implications for Stress and Physical Health

• In Event: Extending Relational Health Communication Research

Abstract

Interpersonal conflict has been linked with various health outcomes. Working from a serial arguing framework, we explore how aspects of serial arguments, including perceived resolvability of the argument as well as the demand/withdraw pattern enacted in the conflict episodes impacts individuals’ well-being. Specifically, we find that resolvability is beneficial for individuals’ stress levels, while the demand/withdraw pattern has a negative impact on stress. Resolvability and demand/withdraw interact to predict individuals’ experience of various physical health problems as well as cutting down on their regular activities due to their health problems.

Authors

• Rachel S Malis, Northwestern University

• Michael Roloff, Northwestern University