The Relations of Internalizing Symptoms to Conflict and Interpersonal Problem Solving in Close Relationships

Abstract

This study examined the relations between interpersonal conflict, interpersonal problem solving, and internalizing symptoms (viz., depression and anxiety symptoms) in a sample of 123 college students. Conflict was assessed in five different close relationships (viz., best friend, second best friend, romantic partner, mother, father). In addition, five dimensions of problem-solving ability were examined (viz., positive and negative problem orientation, rational problem solving, impulsivity/carelessness style, avoidance style). Regression analyses showed negative problem orientation to predict depression above and beyond what was accounted for by mother conflict and romantic conflict. Avoidance style was also found to predict depression beyond what was accounted for by mother conflict alone. Negative problem orientation was also found to be a highly significant moderator of the relationship between romantic partner conflicts and anxiety symptoms. Specifically, the relationship between conflicts and anxiety symptoms was stronger when negative problem orientation was high rather than low. Implications for theory, clinical practice, and future research are discussed.