Self-construals, conflict styles, and religious identification in India
International Journal of Conflict Management
ISSN: 1044-4068
Article publication date: 30 September 2013
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the relationships between self-construals, religious identification, and conflict styles in India.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were gathered in India (n=1,108) among Hindus (n=744) and Muslims (n=364) in various organizations throughout India. Conflict styles were measured using Oetzel's conflict style measure. Self-construal was measured using Singelis' self-construal measure. Pearson correlations and multiple regressions were conducted.
Findings
Correlation analysis showed significant negative correlation between the independent and interdependent self-construal. Multiple hierarchical regression modeling demonstrated significant interactions between religious identification, self-construal, and conflict style. Hindus are more likely to dominate in conflict situations, while Muslims are more likely to avoid conflict and prefer more group-oriented conflict styles.
Research limitations/implications
Self-report measure is a possible limitation and the sample is religiously homogeneous.
Practical implications
The results of this study could assist community organizers and others who work in conflict mediation resolve conflict among religious groups.
Originality/value
Few studies have examined conflict styles in India and this study employs a macro and micro-level approach to the study of conflict.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The author would like to thank Gayatre Pillai Komal Agarwal, Lalima Bose, Pavankumar Laxmichand Choudhary, Imran Jafri, Vikrant Joshi, Ashish Saldanha, and Jagruti Saxena for assistance with data collection/analysis.
Citation
Michael Croucher, S. (2013), "Self-construals, conflict styles, and religious identification in India", International Journal of Conflict Management, Vol. 24 No. 4, pp. 421-436. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCMA-03-2012-0033
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2013, Emerald Group Publishing Limited