Mindfulness, attachment style and conflict resolution behaviors in romantic relationships

Effective regulation of conflict requires a couple to talk openly about issues (Gottman, 1999). One of the ways these skills can be enhanced is through mindful awareness of what is happening in the present moment with the qualities of acceptance, openness and non-judgment (Brotto Heimin, 2007). However, differing attachment styles rooted in patterns learned in childhood may interfere with effective communication between couples. This study explored the differences in mindfulness qualities between various conflict regulation styles and attachment styles. Differences in relationship satisfaction were also examined in various conflict regulation styles. Seventy-nine individuals who have been in a monogamous relationship for at least one year and are co-habiting completed an online survey comprised of the Freiberg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI), Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory-II (ROCI-II), Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory-Revised (ECR-R) and Multidimensional Relationship Questionnaire (MRQ). Results revealed significant differences in mindfulness and relationship satisfaction between conflict regulation styles. These results suggest that mindfulness qualities of openness, acceptance and non-judgment can be enhanced in clinical settings to improve conflict regulation outcomes and relationship satisfaction regardless of an individual's adult attachment orientation.