The study uses interpretative phenomenological analysis to highlight the experience of resolving partner conflict and its connections to early life experiences. Emerging adults (N=13) describe the resolution process as a cycle that is defined by causes and motives. These affect the selection of resolution strategies that lead to a (un)successful conclusion. Individuals experience resolution as an unpleasant process that brings with it distress, stress, intense emotions, as well as short-term and long-term consequences that can be either positive or negative. The majority recognised similarities between the resolution of partner conflicts and the early conflict resolution between family members. Besides these similarities there are also differences, which the respondents attribute to disapproval of the old resolution strategies, greater motivation to find a solution, maturing and individual characteristics. The findings enable guidelines for working with young couples to be created that could contribute to a reduction in conflict occurrence, more successful resolution and a better quality of interpersonal relationships. The study highlight the experience of partner conflict resolution and views the understanding of the occurrence and transfer of the process through the prism of early family experiences, however, it is aware of its limitation and offers additional options for the further study of this complex construct.
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