Why do Men Distance? Factors Predictive of Male Avoidance of Intimate Conflict
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2003
Abstract
This is an empirical investigation into one aspect of the pursuer-distancer pattern in intimate relationships. It explores why many male partners consistently avoid or withdraw from negotiating important issues in these relationships. Results suggest a broad array of potential reasons for this "distancing" having to do with (a) their own personal characteristics, (b) their expectations for certain aversive behaviors by their partners in conflict situations, and (c) further and related expectations that, in their relationships, engaging in disagreements is more likely to prove destructive than constructive.
Recommended Citation
Ward, Christina A.; Bergner, Raymond M.; and Kahn, Jeffrey H., "Why do Men Distance? Factors Predictive of Male Avoidance of Intimate Conflict" (2003). Faculty Publications – Psychology. 30.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/fppsych/30
Comments
This article was originally published as Ward, C. A., Bergner, R. M., & Kahn, J. H. (2003). Why do men distance? Factors predictive of male avoidance of intimate conflict. Family Therapy, 30, 1–11.