Serial Argument Goals and Conflict Strategies: A Comparison between Romantic Partners and Family Members

• In Event: Interpersonal Communication Processes in the Family Context

Abstract

This study compares family and romantic relationships in terms of serial argument goal importance and conflict strategy usage. A college student and community member sample completed a written survey. Romantic partners reported that the two positive goals were more important and were also more likely to use the integrative conflict strategy. In contrast, family members reported that the dominance/control goal was more primary. These findings and their implications for the study of serial argumentation are discussed.

Author

• Jennifer Bevan, Chapman University