Conflict resolution strategies in dating relationships

Background: Dating relationships are a fundamental part of the developmental process of adolescence through the sharing of activities, thoughts, feelings and intimacy. However, conflicts can occur so that conflict resolution strategies (CRS) are highly needed, especially in order to prevent dating violence. While research has shown the importance of positive CRS in peer relationships among adolescents (Laursen et al., 2001), only few studies focused on the dating context (Bonache et al., 2016). The present study focuses on variables likely to influence the use of positive CRS in a dating context. On the one hand, in friendships, empathy has been positively associated with CRS (de Wied et al., 2007). On the other hand, specifically in the dating violence field, empathy and verbal skills are considered a protective factor (Vagi et al., 2013) while impulsivity has only been studied very recently (McNaughton Reyes et al., 2017). The aim of the current study is to explore how these variables can explain the CRS used in dating relationships.
Method: A sample of 813 adolescents and emerging adults (71.7% females, Mean age 18.9) was self-administered questionnaires investigating positive CRS in dating relationships (seven items of the Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationship Inventor -Wolfe et al., 2001), empathy (IRI - Davis, 1983), impulsivity (UPPS-short – Billieux et al., 2012) and verbal skills (Boutard et al., 2010).
Results: We conducted separate regression analyses among males and females with the empathy, impulsivity and verbal skills subscales entered as predictors, controlling for age. Considering our comprehensive model, it is better at explaining positive CRS among females than males. Specific dimensions foster the use of positive CRS whereas other dimensions hamper it. Perspective-taking is a common predictor for both sexes. Implications: Considering the risk of escalation from conflict in a dating relationship to dating violence, teaching positive CRS could be part of sex-specific prevention programs with sessions enhancing empathy and verbal skills, as well as promoting impulsivity management.