Conflict resolution - Links with adolescents' family relationships and individual well-being

This study examined (a) sex differences in adolescents' conflict resolution with mothers, fathers, and siblings; (b) how adolescents' personal qualities and the nature of their family relationships relate to effective conflict resolution with family members; and (c) the direct role of conflict resolution in adolescents' adjustment and the moderating role of conflict resolution in the relationship between conflict with family members and adolescents' adjustment. Participants were 92 girls and 93 boys (mean age = 14.5 years) and their parents and siblings. Findings indicated that girls and boys used less effective conflict resolution strategies with siblings than with mothers or fathers and that adolescents' personal qualities were linked with effective conflict resolution. Effective conflict resolution was generally linked to better adjustment. Evidence for the role of conflict resolution effectiveness as a moderator was limited. Findings are discussed in terms of similarities and differences in adolescents' relationships with mothers, fathers, and siblings.