Does attachment style moderate the effect of computer-mediated versus face-to-face conflict discussions?

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

74 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Successful conflict resolution is important in romantic relationships. With the advent of computer-mediated communication (CMC), partners can resolve conflict using CMC. But is CMC as effective as face-to-face communication for conflict resolution? And does the effectiveness depend on attachment style? We asked 100 romantic couples to discuss a conflict topic and randomly assigned them to do so face-to-face or via CMC. Levels of distress, anger, and conflict resolution did not differ between face-to-face and CMC discussions.
Attachment style did not moderate these findings. A more anxious and a more avoidant attachment style were associated with higher levels of distress and
anger. We conclude that there is no indication that resolving conflict face-to-face has advantages over resolving conflict via CMC.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)939-955
Number of pages17
JournalPersonal Relationships
Volume27
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2020

Keywords

  • COMMUNICATION COMPETENCE
  • COUPLES
  • INTIMACY
  • LOVE
  • ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS
  • SATISFACTION
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • adult attachment
  • communication
  • computer&#8208
  • conflict resolution
  • mediated&#8208
  • texting

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Does attachment style moderate the effect of computer-mediated versus face-to-face conflict discussions?'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this