Simple reflection exercises can build efficacy and reduce distress about relationship conflicts

Abstract

Serious conflicts in close personal relationships can be highly distressing and tempting to ignore, but avoidance of conflict is maladaptive. In the present research, we tested the effectiveness of short conflict‐reflection interventions to promote constructive engagement with conflicts. In Study 1 (N = 358), a relatively unstructured, conflicted‐reflection intervention significantly reduced distress and bolstered confidence in partners' ability to resolve their relationship conflicts. Study 2 (N = 411) further revealed that this intervention was as, or nearly as effective as more elaborate interventions that prescribed specific, theory‐based, therapeutic elements. Together, results reveal that even brief episodes of constructive reflection on relationship conflicts can improve confidence and reduce distress about them. The positive effects of a relatively unstructured reflection suggest people already have adaptive intuitions about how to more effectively manage conflicts in their relationships and can benefit from brief reflections on how to apply them.