Title
Mindfulness-Informed Conflict Process in Romantic Relationships
Format Type
Plenary
Format Type
Paper
Start Date
14-1-2021 3:00 PM
End Date
14-1-2021 3:20 PM
Abstract
Conflict is a common occurrence in romantic relationships. Constructive conflict process can promote closeness between partners and enhance partners’ experience of the relationship. Skills needed for constructive conflict resolution echo some of the core mindfulness principles, such as awareness, compassion, and self-regulation. The purpose of this presentation is to present the results of the grounded theory study of the Mindfulness-Informed Conflict Process (MICP) that explains how mindfulness practice informs the conflict process in romantic relationships. This presentation will describe MICP and highlight how mindfulness can be utilized during conflict in romantic relationships.
Participants in this study included female graduates of an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program, who were in cohabiting romantic relationships for a minimum length of a 1-year period. MICP grounded theory was developed as a result of thorough analysis of semi-structured interviews. The theory of MICP will be discussed, including its two key processes: Internal mindful process and Intentional communication process. The Internal mindful process includes three interdependent components: becoming aware, distancing from emotions/reactions, and engaging in self-reflection. The Intentional communication process includes three main components: focusing on understanding, implementing active listening skills, and refraining from damaging responses. Findings of the current study highlight that coming to a mutual understanding and acceptance of each other/the conflict issue was more critical than finding an immediate resolution of the conflict.
Keywords
grounded theory, qualitative research, couple conflict, mindfulness, conflict process
ORCID ID
0000-0002-9037-1600
Mindfulness-Informed Conflict Process in Romantic Relationships
Conflict is a common occurrence in romantic relationships. Constructive conflict process can promote closeness between partners and enhance partners’ experience of the relationship. Skills needed for constructive conflict resolution echo some of the core mindfulness principles, such as awareness, compassion, and self-regulation. The purpose of this presentation is to present the results of the grounded theory study of the Mindfulness-Informed Conflict Process (MICP) that explains how mindfulness practice informs the conflict process in romantic relationships. This presentation will describe MICP and highlight how mindfulness can be utilized during conflict in romantic relationships.
Participants in this study included female graduates of an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program, who were in cohabiting romantic relationships for a minimum length of a 1-year period. MICP grounded theory was developed as a result of thorough analysis of semi-structured interviews. The theory of MICP will be discussed, including its two key processes: Internal mindful process and Intentional communication process. The Internal mindful process includes three interdependent components: becoming aware, distancing from emotions/reactions, and engaging in self-reflection. The Intentional communication process includes three main components: focusing on understanding, implementing active listening skills, and refraining from damaging responses. Findings of the current study highlight that coming to a mutual understanding and acceptance of each other/the conflict issue was more critical than finding an immediate resolution of the conflict.