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

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    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

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