A latent profile analysis of individual conflict styles, attachment styles, and adaptability : identification of latent profiles and investigation of the implications at work

Abstract

The goal of the current research was to use a person-centered approach to identify unique combinations of conflict styles, attachment styles, and adaptability, and to determine how these unique profiles relate to job, well-being and conflict-related outcomes at work. Using latent profile analysis, five unique profiles were obtained: ‘well-adjusted collaborative interactors,’ ‘sensitive adaptive interactors,’ ‘inflexible withdrawn interactors,’ ‘passive interactors,’ and ‘evolved avoidant interactors.’ These profiles were significantly discriminated on two composites, ‘problematic interactions’ and ‘work efficacy.’ The ‘well-adjusted collaborative interactors,’ who were both secure and adaptive had the most beneficial profile characterized by high ‘work efficacy’ and low ‘problematic interactions.’ The ‘passive interactors,’ who were equally avoidant and anxious, and non-adaptive had the least favorable outcomes. Groups who frequently used the compromising and problem-solving conflict styles (i.e. ‘well-adjusted collaborative interactors’ and ‘evolved avoidant interactors’) demonstrated more favorable outcomes. Implications of the study for enhancing conflict management at work are discussed.