Effects of mediated communication on conflict behavior, resolution, and affect in romantic couples. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ruppel, Erin K.; Cherney, Maura R.; Quinn, Samantha F.; Richards, Riley J.
• Other Names: Sprecher Susan guest-editor.; Perlman Daniel guest-editor.; Drouin Michelle guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of social and personal relationships. Volume 38:Number 12(2021)
• Page Start: 3633
• Page End: 3645
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: romantic relationships -- conflict -- conflict resolution -- communication technology -- text messaging -- positive and negative affect; Interpersonal relations -- Periodicals; Social interaction -- Periodicals; 302.05
• DOI: 10.1177/02654075211040806
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0265-4075

Abstract

Mediated communication such as text messaging influences how romantic couples engage in and perceive conflict interactions, but the precise nature of these effects is unclear. We randomly assigned 43 romantic couples to engage in a conflict interaction either face-to-face ( n = 23 couples) or using a text-based messaging application ( n = 20 couples). Participants completed self-report measures of positive and negative conflict behaviors (e.g., humor and hostility), perceived progress toward conflict resolution, and positive and negative affect (e.g., inspired and afraid). Participants who engaged in more positive conflict behaviors reported more progress toward conflict resolution and more positive affect. Positive conflict behaviors were lower in text-based than face-to-face interactions. Progress toward conflict resolution, positive and negative affect, and negative conflict behaviors did not differ between text-based and face-to-face conflict interactions. The findings highlight the utility of examining both positive and negative conflict behaviors in mediated conflict and suggest that future research should further examine when and how participants compensate for a lack of nonverbal cues in mediated conflict.