ABSTRACT
This chapter ascertains whether the association between negative conflict resolution and relationship satisfaction was similar for minor and for major issues, and determines whether negative conflict resolution in romantic relationships over minor issues was related to that over major issues. Self-reported negative conflict resolution found to predict relationship satisfaction and stability. The correlations between the three variables of relationship satisfaction and conflict over minor and major issues did not differ substantially when those not having differences over either minor or major issues were included or excluded from the analysis. All the relationships were heterosexual. Satisfaction was significantly and equally negatively correlated with conflict over minor and major issues, suggesting that whether an issue is of major or minor importance does not affect satisfaction or dissatisfaction in a romantic relationship. Surprisingly, few studies compare the extent to which participants and observers agree on what has occurred or the relative strengths of either observe ovation or self-report in predicting relationship compatibility.
