Conflict and Interpersonal Problem Solving in Close Relationships

In this study Londahl, E., Tverskoy, A., & D'Zurilla, T. (2005) discuss conflict between romantic partner relations. They discuss how avoidance, interpersonal, and interpersonal conflict styles can bring about resolution to communication situations. Conflict

As discussed in class interpersonal conflict is when an individual has conflict with others; either a group or individual.  When this occurs, the group needs to decide upon a way to solve the issue with all parties being somewhat (competition), partially (zero sum), or completely satisfied (non-zero sum) with the outcome of the situation.

With competition in a conflict one party basically refuses to see anyone else's point of view other than their own, the person wants what they are want and do not care if the other party are satisfied or not.

In zero sum one party wins and one party looses; which can leave ill feelings and the potential for future conflict eruption simply because the initial conflict was not solved in an amicable/agreeable manner.

Non-zero sum creates the ideal outcome for all involved, as most likely all parties of interest have given voice to their concerns, have made clear their requirements/expectations and have come to an acceptable term(s) of agreement to the conflict.

If solutions to a problem are not easily found or agreed upon a mediator can also be of use to assist the deescalation of the situation and resolution of the problem.  A mediator can help assist both parties with ways to release internalized issues so that both parties can 'air' their concerns and have the matter sufficiently dealt with.

In conflicting situations, it is best to choose Constructive problem solving because it initiates a challenge or opportunity to benefit the issue with a solvable solution by allowing persons to effectively with time and effort,to persistently come up with a solution; instead of  choosing Destructive problem solving which only leads to festering and harboring hurt or bitter feelings and larger problems to solve or not, which only causes further disagreements or disputes between people in relationships.