do things – to start some action, and complete it – whether it’s a service transaction, an invitation to coffee or reassurance on a bad day. Our has evolved to help us get things done in the social world.
Arguments are part of this complex system. They can be unavoidable, necessary or even productive. But they can also be difficult.
It can be hard to know what to do when tensions are high and harsh words are flying, particularly when it involves someone you’re close to. But research on how disputes unfold – and conversation more generally – offers some ideas about the best way to handle one.
What is a dispute?
There are many words for disagreeing, and there are plenty of academic theories describing what disputes are and why they happen. But arguments are not abstract models. They’re lived in, breathed in, sweated in and talked (or sometimes shouted) into being.
Research focusing on shows they’re characterised by three types of features. First are the , which include talking in a higher pitch, louder and faster. Then, there are such as aggressive gestures and avoidant stances, such as turning away from someone. Finally, there are such as talking over each other, not listening or metatalk – as it’s happening.
such as displeasure or anger, are also common. Participants might accuse each other of emotions or label their own emotions.
Disputes happen for several reasons. What each person is doing can vary, from to .
They can be about many things – familial obligations, what to have for dinner, politics or how to plan a holiday. Luckily, disputes share elements and with conversation generally – so you don’t have to invent new strategies every time you’re caught in one.
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For the full article by Dr Jessica Robles visit .
ENDS