A Functional Approach to Interpersonal Argument: Differences between Public-Issue and Personal-Issue Arguments

Abstract

A functional approach to argument distinguishes between public-issue and personal-issue arguments. Public-issue arguments focus on concerns outside the interpersonal dyad, while personal-issue arguments focus on issues tied closely to the interpersonal relationship. In this study, 117 students from a midsized southwestern university completed a survey in which they were asked to recall a public-issue and personal-issue interpersonal argument with a friend, family member, or romantic partner. The results show that public-issue arguments were reported to fulfill the functions of gaining or giving knowledge, passing the time, and expressing one's views more often than personal-issue arguments. Personal-issue arguments were reported to fulfill the functions of portraying oneself in a positive light and solving behavioral incompatibilities more often than public-issue arguments.