The role of communication channel and self-esteem in romantic couple conflict.

ABSTRACTThis work explores the role of self-esteem and communication channel (i.e., face-to-face and computer-mediated communication) during romantic couple conflict. Interviews revealed that couples use a variety of channels during conflict that provide both benefits and drawbacks. To better understand these communication processes, I will conduct a lab study where couples discuss a conflict either FtF or over instant messenger (IM). I hypothesize that low self-esteem individuals will report more negative message interpretation, communication quality, and relationship satisfaction via IM than via FtF communication since the ambiguity of CMC allows them more room to project their negative biases onto their partners.