A Grounded Theory on Conflict Management in Long-Distance Relationships

Abstract

The literature on interpersonal conflict management is already extensive and theories have been forwarded since the 1960s. However, these theories were created with proximal couples in mind. They do not address the situation of partners in long-distance relationships (LDRs). Thus, a grounded theory study was done among 10 Filipinos in LDRs. They were individually interviewed for about an hour per session and the interviews were transcribed. The transcriptions were then subjected to open coding, which yielded 18 open codes. During the selective coding, these were pared down to five categories. Their relationships were identified during the theoretical coding, which resulted in a grounded theory on conflict management in LDRs. This theory posits that the reason for the LDR; long-term relationship plans; communication practices; and the values, behaviors, and other attributes of the couple all shape long-distance conflicts. The computer-mediated communication technologies used by the long-distance couples were factors in relational maintenance.

Bridging the Distance: Effective Communication and Honesty Among College Students in Romantic Long-Distance Relationships

“…Video calls are essential as they help comprehend their partner's affect and reaction more accurately by getting a view of their nonverbal cues, expressions and tone of voice. The participants chose video calling since it gave them the ability to observe their partners more accurately (Naz, 2020). For couples in LDRRs, reliance on video calls is heavy as it is the closest they get to seeing each other and when this option is unavailable, it causes a lot of strain on the relationship.…”

“…They also stated that proper communication results in increased honesty between partners about day to day activities. According toNaz (2020), participants of the study stated that conflict resolution and relationship maintenance require open communication. They emphasized that having conversations regarding the ordinary and "sweet nothings" is acceptable because communication in itself is what counts.…”