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

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Jan 14th, 3:00 PM Jan 14th, 3:20 PM

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.