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Couple conflict: Insights from an attachment perspective
journal contribution
posted on 2017-02-01, 00:00 authored by J A Feeney, Gery KarantzasGery KarantzasThe experience of conflict is often cited as a highly stressful relational phenomenon by romantic couples, and can have negative implications for relationship satisfaction and for the longevity of romantic relationships. In this paper, we review extant research on couple conflict in romantic relationships from an attachment theory perspective. The research we review is underpinned by two central tenets: firstly, severe or persistent conflict activates the attachment system; secondly, responses to couple conflict involve complex attachment dynamics, shaped by partners' attachment anxiety and avoidance. The research reviewed has important implications for both research and practice in the area of couple conflict, and clearly demonstrates how conflict can act as a stressor that shapes relationship functioning.
History
Journal
Current Opinion in PsychologyVolume
13Pagination
60 - 64Publisher DOI
ISSN
2352-250XPublication classification
C Journal article; C1 Refereed article in a scholarly journalCopyright notice
2016, Elsevier Ltd.Usage metrics
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No categories selectedKeywords
Social SciencesPsychology, MultidisciplinaryPsychologyROMANTIC PARTNERSMARITAL CONFLICTHURT FEELINGSPERCEPTIONSCONGRUENCEAVOIDANCEDIARYMODELcouple conflictattachmentromantic relationshipsattachment theory perspectivestressorsrelationship satisfactionlongevityattachment behavioral systemattachment-relationship quality link
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