Logo image
Conflict in Dating and Marital Relationships
Book chapter

Conflict in Dating and Marital Relationships

John P Caughlin, Anita L Vangelisti and Sylvia Mikucki-Enyart
The SAGE Handbook of Conflict Communication, pp.161-186
SAGE Publications, Inc, 2nd edition
2013
DOI: 10.4135/9781452281988.n7

View Online

Abstract

Conflict in dating relationships and marriages has generated enormous scholarly and popular interest. When handled well, conflict in romantic unions can enable relational partners to learn about each other and foster a sense of cohesion and commitment (Siegert & Stamp, 1994). When not managed well, conflict can have negative implications for the relationship and for the relational partners (e.g., Zacchilli, Hendrick, & Hendrick, 2009). Conflict in romantic relationships also has implications for individuals beyond those directly involved. Marital conflict, for instance, is an even more important predictor of negative outcomes for children than is parental divorce (Booth & Amato, 2001).

Details

Metrics

50 Record Views
Logo image