Conflict Management in Romantic Long Distance-Relationships

Abstract

This study sought to understand the conflicts of Filipinos in long-distance relationships (LDRs). Specifically, it aimed to know the conflicts Filipinos in LDRs usually experience, their conflict management styles, and the communication channels they use in managing conflicts. Since the existing theories on conflict management in LDRs are Western, the researcher developed a theory of conflict management among Filipinos in LDRs using the Grounded Theory Method (GTM). Ten Filipinos in LDRs were interviewed. Their narratives were subjected to GTM, and 18 open codes were identified. During the Selective coding, these were pared down to five categories. Their relationships were identified during the theoretical coding, which yielded a grounded theory on conflict management in LDRs. This theory posits that conflicts in the LDR; the reason for the LDR; long-term relationship plans; communication practices; and the values, behaviors, and other attributes of the long-distance couple affect each other. Meanwhile, all of them are shaped by the Filipinos’ concept of romance and love.