Learning Objectives

  1. Define conflict and describe the role it plays in close relationships.
  2. Know the six conflict styles in detail, including where they fall on the dimensions of directness and cooperativeness
  3. Describe the common patterns of conflict interaction in relationships.
  4. Describe the “four horsemen of the apocalypse” and their antidotes.
  5. Understand how emotions, attributions, and communication skill deficits help explain patterns of conflict in relationships.