COMPETITIVE AND COLLABORATIVE RESPONSES TO NEGATIVE FEEDBACK

This study examined the impact of interpersonal and intrapersonal factors upon the use of competitive and collaborative conflict resolution strategies in response to negative feedback Male and female college students were asked to recall instances of interpersonal conflicts where they received negative feedback from peers. Different factors predicted competition and collaboration. Greater negative affect led to more competition, while feedback on more important topics within closer relationships led to more collaboration. Gender had indirect effects on both of these assertive strategies, with women being more likely to both compete and collaborate. Several implications for further research are discussed.