Author: Zaeema Farooq
Supervisor: Mr. Faiz Younas Butt
Degree: MPhil
Year: (2008-2010)
University: Institute of Applied Psychology, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan
Abstract
The present study examined the relationship between attachment styles, conflict resolution techniques and relationship quality in married couples. It was hypothesized that attachment styles, conflict resolution techniques would be categorically related to each other and with relationship quality. Furthermore, it was hypothesized that conflict resolution styles would mediate relationship between attachment styles and relationship quality. Datawas collected from a sample of 52 married couples (N = 104). Relationship Scales Questionnaire (Bartholomew & Horowitz, 1991), Romantic Conflict Style Scale (Steuber, 2005) and Relationship Assessment Scale (Hendricks, 1988) were used. Person Product Moment Correlation was applied to get results which showed that all four attachment styles were significantly correlated with relationship quality. Among the conflict resolution styles volatile, hostile and validating conflict resolution style was significantly correlated with relationship quality. But hostile conflict resolution technique was negatively correlated with the relationship quality. Path analysis using AMOS was also conducted to examine the predictors and mediators of relationship quality as direct and indirect effects and its results indicated that Volatile and hostile conflict resolution styles were the significant meditational variables that established the path between fearful and secure attachment style and the relationship quality. The research establishes important aspects for marital counselors to employ, creating a better understanding of personality and interpersonal aspects in marriage.
Keywords: attachment styles, conflict resolution, relationship quality, married couples.
Visit University to get the full thesis.
Corresponding Address: Department of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. Email: chairperson@appsy.pu.edu.pk, Phone: 92-42-9231245
