Cooperativeness refers to the extent to which a person tries to understand and satisfy their partners concerns.
Assertiveness, meanwhile, refers to the extent to which a person seeks to satisfy their own concerns.
A style leaning too far to either extreme can be unhealthy.
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Common Types of Conflict in Relationships
Conflict is normal in every relationship.
The first parent wants to discipline the daughter when she comes with her latest report card of mostly Cs.
The second parent thinks discipline is uncalled for.
Cs are still passing grades.
As long as shes passing her classes, she should be given some room to live her own life.
Now, put yourself in this situation and consider how you would respond.
Conflict Resolution Tips
Can a Relationship Work If You Have Different Conflict Resolution Styles?
You dont need to have matching styles to maintain a healthy relationship.
However, its still important to find balance in how you resolve conflicts.
It’s important to find balance in how you resolve conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
In general, it should be collaborative.
If the problem will impact the relationship or either persons future happiness, then yes.
A couples therapist can help you navigate this situation and help both of you develop healthier conflict-resolution styles.
Smaller conflicts about general annoyances and pet peeves, however, do not always need to be discussed.
But if something bothers you or hurts your feelings, it’s certainly worth bringing up.
Mossanen M, Johnston SS, Green J, Joyner BD.A practical approach to conflict management for program directors.
Journal of Graduate Medical Education.
2014;6(2):345-346.
In: Bradbury TN, ed.
The Developmental Course of Marital Dysfunction.
Cambridge University Press; 1998:11-43.
