Serial Argument Goals and Changes in Perceived Conflict Resolution: A Dyadic Analysis

Prior research on serial arguments has generally been retrospective and cross-sectional in nature. Accordingly, little is known about the extent to which features of single argumentative episodes may impact arguers’ progress toward successfully resolving serial arguments. This study utilized self-reports of serial argument goals from 75 heterosexual couples engaged in live argumentative episodes to assess associations between serial argument goals and the degree of change in perceived resolution from preargument to postargument. Results illustrated that the importance and valence of actors’ and partners’ serial argument goals were associated with perceived changes in resolution.