ABSTRACT
Some degree of conflict is virtually inevitable in every relationship. It may be conspicuous, taking the form of rows or fights, but more usually it is so subtly interwoven with positive feelings and pleasurable interactions that it goes unnoticed. Indeed the defence mechanisms of the participants may ensure that they are unconscious of conflictual issues, and the retrospective accounts that people give of their relationships often focus on their positive sides, with past conflicts swept under the carpet. Nevertheless, conflict in close relationships may be important because the basic issue is often the nature of the relationship itself rather than the overt topic of disagreement.
