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Does attachment style moderate the effect of computer-mediated versus face-to-face conflict discussions?
Pollmann,Monique Crockett,Erin Vanden Abeele,Mariek Schouten,Alexander
Pollmann,Monique
Crockett,Erin
Vanden Abeele,Mariek
Schouten,Alexander
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.
Description
Publisher Copyright: © 2020 The Authors. Personal Relationships published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Association for Relationship Research. Copyright: Copyright 2020 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.
Date
2020-12
Journal Title
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Volume Title
Publisher
Research Projects
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Journal Issue
Keywords
COMMUNICATION COMPETENCE, COUPLES, INTIMACY, LOVE, ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS, SATISFACTION, TECHNOLOGY, adult attachment, communication, computer‐, conflict resolution, mediated‐, texting
Citation
Pollmann, M, Crockett, E, Vanden Abeele, M & Schouten, A 2020, 'Does attachment style moderate the effect of computer-mediated versus face-to-face conflict discussions?', Personal Relationships, vol. 27, no. 4, pp. 939-955. https://doi.org/10.1111/pere.12345