International Journal of Social and Behavioural Sciences Vol. 1 (2), pp. 049-054 February 2013 ISSN 2327-719X ©2013 Academe Research Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Self concept, family background, and personality characteristics as factors influencing conflict resolution strategies among couples in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

Adedeji J. Ogunleye¹* and Babatola D. Olawa²

¹Department of Psychology, Faculty of the Social Sciences, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.

²Psychology Department, Faculty of Social Sciences, Federal University, Oye Ekiti, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: ogunleyedeji2006@yahoo.com. Tel: +2348036758644

Accepted 16 February, 2013

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of self concept, family background and personality characteristics on conflict resolution strategies of couples in Ado-Ekiti. One hundred and seventy four married participants completed a questionnaire comprising of the Index of Self-Esteem, the Big Five Personality Inventory and the Conflict Resolution Strategy Scale. The research participants were selected in Ado-Ekiti through purposive and convenience sampling methods. Responses from the survey research were analyzed using multiple regression and independent t test statistics. Results of the study showed that self-concept, family background and sex did not individually influence couples’ conflict resolution strategies. Personality characteristics had a significantly effect on conflict resolution strategies. However, the interaction of self-concept, family background, sex, and personality characteristics significantly influence couples conflict resolution strategies. Family background did not have a significant effect on self concept of couples. Results were discussed in line with previous literature and it was recommended that marital therapists and counselors should adequately assess the self concept, personality, and family background of couples before implementing therapeutic plan so as to assist them in adopting appropriate styles of resolving conflicts in marital life.

Key words: Self concept, family background, personality, conflict resolution strategies, couples, Nigeria.