Cooperative conflict-solving during adolescence: Relationships with cognitive-behavioural and predictor variables

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to analyse the existence of sex differences in three styles of interpersonal conflict resolution, to explore the relationships between cooperative and aggressive conflict resolution with diverse cognitive-behavioural variables, and to identify predictor variables of cooperative interpersonal conflict resolution. The sample included 313 adolescents, aged 15 to 17 years. Descriptive and correlational methodology was used, and 6 assessment instruments were administered. The ANOVAs showed significantly higher scores for the females in cooperative conflict resolution, and for the males in aggressive conflict resolution. Pearson coefficients confirmed that adolescents of both sexes who used a cooperative conflict-solving style also had a high self-concept, many positive cognitions and empathy towards victims of violence, a high consideration of prosocial values and behaviours, high empathy, many positive and few aggressive social behaviours. Regression analysis identified 3 predictor variables of the use of a “cooperative resolution” style: many behaviours of social sensitivity, a good self-concept and a high level of empathetic concern.