Avoidance and attacking conflict-resolution strategies among married couples: Relations to depressive symptoms and marita satisfaction

This study examined the relation of depressive symptoms and marital satisfaction to conflict-resolution strategies (avoidance and attacking) in a sample of 40 married couples. Using hierarchical regression analyses, models were tested wherein avoidance and attacking scores were regressed on husbands' and wives' depressive symptoms and marital satisfaction scores. Depressive symptoms and marital satisfaction were powerful predictors of conflict-resolution strategies; however, different predictors were noted for avoidance and attacking conflict-resolution strategies. Gender differences were also revealed.